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.