Viejita - Apistogramma viejita

Scientific name: Apistogramma viejita

Common name: Viejita

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 6 - 8 cm (2.36 - 3.15 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 5.5 - 6.5

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 2 - 10°N (35.71 - 178.57ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 25 - 28 °C (77 - 82.4°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: Middle levels

Food and feeding

The staple diet for Viejita should be a quality flake. They will appreciate treats of brine shrimp and blood worm.

Origin

South America; Viejita’s are to be found in the Amazon River Basins.

Sexing

As juveniles, Viejita’s are impossible to sex. When adult, the male will display more coloration and have an extended dorsal fin.

Breeding

Soft, acidic water is required to get Apistogramma viejita to breed. Small, frequent water changes will often induce spawning. Approx. 40 eggs will be laid in a batch and the female will protect these, the male will stand guard of the spawning site. The fry can be fed on newly hatched brine shrimp when they are free swimming.

Lifespan

The expected life span of Viejita is 2-3 years.

Short description

Viejita’s are best kept in a tank with plenty of plants; they should be kept in a ratio of one male to 3-4 females as they are a harem fish. Open swimming spaces should also be provided.

Thanks to Jan Wirén for his picture.