More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 40 litres / 10.57 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 6.5cm / 2.56inches |
| Temperature | 20°C / 68.00°F - 26°C / 78.80°F |
| Hardness | 1.01dgH / 18ppm - 15.02dgH / 268ppm |
| pH | 5.0-8.0 |
General Description
The Apistogramma Borellii, commonly known as the Umbrella Cichlid, is a species belonging to the Cichlidae family. With a maximum size of 6.5cm, this cichlid is native to southern Brazil, Paraguay, and northern Argentina and can be found in creeks and tributaries of the Rio Paraguay and lower Rio Paraná basins.
Aquarium Setup
For proper accommodation of the Umbrella Cichlid, a tank size of at least 40 litres is recommended. The setup should include various hiding spots and shady areas created with elements like ceramic flowerpots, plastic piping, wood branches, and roots. A natural-looking tank can be achieved with a sandy substrate, dried leaf litter (such as beech, oak, or Ketapang almond leaves), and the addition of an aquarium-safe peat bag for beneficial microbe growth. Dim lighting and plant species like Microsorum, Taxiphyllum, Cryptocoryne, and Anubias are preferred. Adequate filtration with gentle water flow and weekly water changes of 10-15% are suggested.
Behaviour
Captive-raised Umbrella Cichlids are recommended for community aquariums, while wild specimens are best kept alone or with small "dither" fishes like Nannostomus spp. It is advised not to mix them with other Apistogramma species to prevent potential hybridization.
Feeding and Diet
Umbrella Cichlids are primarily carnivorous, feeding on benthic invertebrates in their natural habitat. In aquariums, they should be offered live and frozen foods like Artemia, Daphnia, and chironomid larvae (bloodworm) regularly. They can also learn to accept dried food alternatives, with pelleted products being preferred.
Reproduction & Dimorphism
This species is a substrate spawner, with females laying eggs in crevices or cavities. Post-spawning care of eggs and fry is primarily the responsibility of the female, who might display hyper-aggressive behavior towards the male in smaller aquaria. Males are larger, more colorful, and develop more extended fins compared to females.
Habitat and Distribution
Originally described in Carandásinho in the Rio Paraguay basin, the Umbrella Cichlid has a wider distribution throughout southern Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina, and Uruguay, encompassing various river systems in the region. A versatile species, it can adapt to different habitats within its native range.