Laetacara Fulvipinnis

Datasheet

General Description

Laetacara fulvipinnis, commonly known in the aquarium hobby as L. sp. ‘orangeflossen’ (orange fins), is a species within the Cichlidae family. It is distinguished by its dorsal fin typically having 15 spines and 10 rays, 23-25 scales in the E1 row, and a moderately scaly dorsal fin base. This species can reach a maximum size of 7.4mm and is native to the upper and middle parts of the Rio Orinoco, the Rio Casiquiare, and the Rio Negro in Venezuela and Brazil.

Aquarium Setup

When setting up an aquarium for L. fulvipinnis, it is essential to replicate its natural habitat. A blackwater environment with clear, soft, and acidic water (pH between 4.0-7.0) is recommended. The temperature should be maintained between 20-28°C, and the hardness of the water should fall within 18-215ppm. Providing ample hiding spots with leaf litter or submerged vegetation is crucial for their well-being (see table for more details).

Behaviour

These cichlids are known to exhibit a biparental substrate-spawning behavior, where both male and female fish participate in caring for the eggs. The incubation period for the eggs is approximately three days, and the fry become free-swimming roughly a week after hatching. Male L. fulvipinnis tend to grow larger than females and develop more extended dorsal, anal, and caudal fins, with older males often showcasing a steeper head profile.

Feeding and Diet

In their natural habitat, L. fulvipinnis are foragers, feeding on algae, detritus, small insects, worms, crustaceans, and zooplankton. In aquarium settings, they readily accept a diet of small live and frozen foods such as bloodworms, Daphnia, and Artemia. Additionally, incorporating high-quality dried flakes and granules containing plant or algal content is recommended for their nutrition and color vibrancy.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

The reproductive strategy of L. fulvipinnis involves depositing eggs on a solid surface, like a plant leaf, followed by both parents taking care of the offspring. Sexual dimorphism is evident in the species, with males growing larger than females and displaying more elaborate fin extensions. During the breeding season, both male and female fish acquire red coloration on the lower head, opercula, and anterior body parts.

Habitat and Distribution

This species of cichlid inhabits shallow waters ranging from 10-50cm in depth, typically found near the edges of streams and tributaries in blackwater environments. L. fulvipinnis has been documented in locations with a pH as low as 4.4 and temperatures around 26.3°C. Their distribution spans areas in Venezuela and Brazil, including the upper and middle regions of the Rio Orinoco, Rio Casiquiare, and Rio Negro, with potential existence in eastern Colombia as well.