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Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 40 litres / 10.57 US gallons |
| Temperature | 23°C / 73.40°F - 29°C / 84.20°F |
| Hardness | 1.01dgH / 18ppm - 3.03dgH / 54ppm |
| pH | 4.0-6.0 |
Behaviour:
Best maintained alone or with small 'dither' fishes such as Nannostomus spp., and ideally should not be mixed with other Apistogramma species. They can become aggressive, especially during the breeding period, and may need to be separated to avoid conflict and ensure the safety of the fry.
Feeding and Diet:
Apistogramma species are chiefly carnivorous and feed mostly on benthic invertebrates in their natural habitat. In the aquarium, it is recommended to offer live and frozen foods such as Artemia, Daphnia, and chironomid larvae regularly. Most species will also accept dried alternatives, with pelleted products being preferred over flake food.
Reproduction & Dimorphism:
Apistogramma Mendezi is a substrate spawner that typically lays its eggs in crevices or cavities among the decor. The female is primarily responsible for caring for the eggs and fry post-spawning. Males are larger, more colorful, and develop more extended fins than females, exhibiting sexual dimorphism.
Habitat and Distribution:
Native to the lower Rio Negro basin in northwestern Brazil, Apistogramma Mendezi inhabits pristine blackwater tributaries and areas of flooded forests. These environments are characterized by darkly stained water with minimal hardness, low conductivity, and a pH range of 4.0-6.0. They coexist with small characids, lebiasinids, other dwarf cichlids, and Corydoras catfishes in their natural habitat.
Aquarium Setup:
To successfully keep Apistogramma Mendezi in an aquarium, providing adequate cover and structure is essential. Decor options can include ceramic flowerpots, plastic piping, wood roots, and branches to create shady spots and caves. A soft, sandy substrate, dried leaf litter, and alder cones can mimic their natural habitat and provide spawning sites. Installing dim lighting and adding aquatic plant species capable of surviving in blackwater conditions is recommended. It is crucial to maintain stable water parameters with low hardness and acidity.
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