Urteagai Apisto (Apistogramma urteagai) Care Guide
Apistogramma urteagai is a dwarf cichlid from small streams and swamps of the Madre de Dios basin in Peru, described by Kullander in 1986.
Overview
Apistogramma urteagai is a small freshwater dwarf cichlid described by Kullander in 1986. According to FishBase it occurs in the Madre de Dios River basin, part of the Amazon system in Peru, where it inhabits small streams and swamps. It is a benthopelagic species reaching about 4 cm in length.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Apistogramma
- Scientific name: Apistogramma urteagai
- Described by: Kullander, 1986
Habitat
FishBase records this species from the Madre de Dios River basin within the Amazon drainage of Peru, in small streams and swamps. Reported field conditions include temperatures of 22-29 °C and pH 5.0-6.0. The genus generally occupies sheltered, leaf-littered, slow-moving lowland waters.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 80 L
- Temperature: 25-29 °C (77-84 °F)
- pH: 4.5-6.5
- GH: 1-4 °dGH
- Maximum size: about 4.1 cm SL (FishBase)
- Lifespan: 3-5 years
A soft sandy substrate with wood, roots and dried leaf litter forming shaded caves suits the genus. Wild Apistogramma often require very soft, acidic water; FishBase reports a field pH of 5.0-6.0 for this species.
Diet
FishBase assigns a trophic level of about 3.3, consistent with a carnivorous diet. Apistogramma feed mainly on benthic invertebrates such as insect larvae in nature and accept small live and frozen foods such as Artemia and Daphnia in the aquarium.
Compatibility
A bottom-dwelling, territorial dwarf cichlid best kept with small, peaceful mid- and upper-water fish such as tetras. Multiple Apistogramma males and larger or aggressive cichlids should be avoided in confined tanks.
Breeding
Like other members of the genus, Apistogramma urteagai is a cave spawner. Females typically guard the eggs and fry inside a crevice or cave while the male defends the surrounding territory.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2014), per the FishBase summary.