Banded dwarf cichlid - Apistogramma bitaeniata

Scientific name: Apistogramma bitaeniata

Common name: Banded dwarf cichlid

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 4 - 5 cm (1.57 - 1.97 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 5 - 6

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 2 - 8°N (35.71 - 142.86ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 23 - 25 °C (73.4 - 77°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South America

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels

Food and feeding

Feeding Banded dwarf cichlids can be tricky, never offer large meals to them. They should be fed 2-3 times per day, small portions on each meal. Apistogramma bitaeniata will accept quality flakes and small pellets, also offer them brine shrimp and daphnia. Spirulina flake will also be beneficial to these fish.

Origin

South America; Banded dwarf cichlids inhabit the black water streams and puddles.

Sexing

Males tend to be larger than the females. Males will grow to 3.5 inches, females will reach 2.5 inches. Adult males will also have a lyre shaped caudal fin.

Breeding

For breeding purposes RO water is recommended. The water needs to be very soft and acidic. The females will lay their eggs in hiding places and after 5-6 days free swimming fry should appear. Initially feed the fry on Infusoria, when they have grown a bit they can be fed on newly hatched brine shrimp.

Lifespan

The expected life span for Banded dwarf cichlids is 5-6 years.

Short description

Corydoras and other Apistogrammas make good tank mates for these fish. Large weekly water changes are required to keep these fish happy and in full color.

Pictures

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.