Apistogramma Elizabethae

Datasheet

General Description

The Apistogramma Elizabethae, commonly known as A208, is a species of cichlid classified under Perciformes. It is assigned the code A208 under the DATZ ‘A’ number system and is highly sought after in the aquarium hobby due to its distinct features and color variations. With around 70 valid species in the Apistogramma genus, this fish is part of a diverse group of South American cichlids. The species displays various color forms, such as blue, reddish, yellowish, and greenish, with each form best kept separate in aquariums to avoid hybridization.

Aquarium Setup

To create an ideal habitat for the Apistogramma Elizabethae, a tank of at least 40 liters is recommended with specific water conditions of a pH range of 4.0-6.0, hardness between 18-54ppm, and a temperature range of 23-29°C. The tank setup should include ample cover and structure, such as ceramic flowerpots, plastic piping, and natural decor like wood roots and branches to provide shady spots and caves. The addition of dried leaf litter not only enhances the aesthetics but also serves as spawning sites and a food source for fry. Adequate lighting and the use of aquatic plants like Microsorum, Taxiphyllum, or Cryptocoryne spp. are beneficial, along with floating vegetation. It is crucial to maintain stable water conditions and avoid introducing the fish to immature aquariums.

Behaviour

Apistogramma Elizabethae is best kept alone or with small "dither" fishes like Nannostomus spp., as they should ideally not be mixed with other Apistogramma species. They exhibit territorial behavior, especially during breeding, and may become aggressive, particularly the females towards the males.

Feeding and Diet

Considered chiefly carnivorous, Apistogramma Elizabethae feeds primarily on benthic invertebrates in its natural habitat. In captivity, they can be fed with a variety of live or frozen foods including Artemia, Daphnia, Moina, and chironomid larvae. While they may learn to accept dried food alternatives, pelleted products are generally preferred over flake foods.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

This species is a substrate spawner that lays its eggs in crevices or cavities among the tank decor. The female takes the lead in caring for the eggs and fry, sometimes becoming hyper-aggressive and requiring the removal of the male in smaller tanks. Raising the fry can be challenging due to their sensitivity to water chemistry fluctuations. Males are larger, more colorful, and develop more extended fins compared to females.

Habitat and Distribution

Apistogramma Elizabethae is native to the lower rio Uaupés in northwestern Brazil and is also found in the adjacent rio Içana, both tributaries of the upper rio Negro system. They inhabit slower-moving tributaries, backwaters, and creeks where fallen leaf litter accumulates, often coexisting with other Apistogramma species like A. brevis, A. meinkeni, and A. uapesi.