Apistogramma Bitaeniata

Datasheet

General Description

The Two-Striped Apis, also known as the banded dwarf cichlid, belongs to the family Cichlidae and falls under the Perciformes classification order. This species, Apistogramma Bitaeniata, displays various color forms based on their collection locality, commonly termed as 'red', 'blue', 'orange', and 'yellow' in the aquarium hobby. Male individuals from Brazilian forms typically have more yellow markings on their heads, while Peruvian forms exhibit more blue markings. The body of Brazilian specimens appears more elongated with a well-defined lower lateral stripe compared to their Peruvian counterparts. The species is part of the genus Apistogramma, which is one of the most diverse South American cichlid genera.

Aquarium Setup

For the Two-Striped Apis, a tank size of 60 litres or more is recommended. The setup should include adequate cover and structure, such as ceramic flowerpots, plastic piping, wood roots, and branches, to create shaded spots and caves. A natural-looking arrangement with a soft, sandy substrate and dried leaf litter can be beneficial. Dim lighting and plant species like Microsorum, Taxiphyllum, Cryptocoryne, and Anubias are preferred. Maintaining water conditions with a pH of 4.5-7.0, hardness of 0-90ppm, and a temperature range of 22-29°C is essential.

Behaviour

Captive-raised Two-Striped Apis are suitable for community aquariums, while wild-caught specimens are better kept alone or with small 'dither' fish like Nannostomus or Micropoecilia spp. It is advisable not to mix them with other Apistogramma species. These fish may exhibit aggressive behavior, especially during reproduction, where the female takes charge of caring for the eggs and fry. In smaller aquaria, it may be necessary to remove the male to prevent aggression.

Feeding and Diet

Primarily carnivorous, the Two-Striped Apis feeds on benthic invertebrates in the wild. In aquariums, they can be fed live and frozen foods like Artemia, Daphnia, and chironomid larvae, along with dried alternatives such as pellets. Providing a balanced diet is essential for their health and well-being.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

This species is a substrate spawner, with the female laying eggs in crevices or cavities. After spawning, the female takes on the responsibility of caring for the eggs and fry, exhibiting protective behavior. Males are larger, more colorful, and develop extended fins compared to females, showcasing sexual dimorphism.

Habitat and Distribution

The Two-Striped Apis is found in slower-moving tributaries, backwaters, and creeks where fallen leaf litter accumulates. Its distribution spans parts of the Peruvian, Colombian, and Brazilian Amazon regions, including the Mara\xF1\xF3n and R\xEDo Ucayali basins in Peru, downstream tributaries of the rio Solim\xF5es, and the rio Madeira to the mouth of the rio Tapaj\xF3s in Brazil. The species' identification in various regions has evolved over time due to ongoing research and discoveries.