All fish / Cichlidae

Banded Apistogramma

Apistogramma taeniata

Also known as banded apisto, taeniata apisto, apistogramma taeniatum, striped dwarf cichlid, アピストグラマ・タエニアータ, 条纹阿卡西短鲷

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A small dwarf cichlid from the lower Amazon with a bold dark lateral band, a yellowish to tan body and blue sheen on the face and fins of males, which also carry extended dorsal fin rays. It is kept for its colour, its interesting territorial behaviour and its manageable size in planted soft-water tanks.

Care at a glance

Care level

Moderate

Temperament

Semi

Adult size

6 cm

Temperature

24 to 29 °C

pH

5 to 7

Smallest tank

60 litres

Keep as

One male with two or more females

Diet

Carnivore: small live and frozen foods such as bloodworm, brine shrimp and daphnia, plus quality small pellets

Swims

Bottom of the tank

Lifespan

3 to 5 years

Water

Freshwater

Wild range

Brazil: lower Amazon basin, Rio Tapajós and nearby tributaries

Breeding

A cave spawner: the female lays eggs on the ceiling of a cave or under wood and guards eggs and fry while the male defends the wider territory. Breeding is fairly achievable in soft, acidic, clean water, with fry taking newly hatched brine shrimp.

Good to know

Males become territorial when spawning, so give plenty of caves and cover. Several similar banded Apistogramma species are sold under this name, so check identity with the seller.