Remarks: Apistogramma borelli is a dwarf cichlid from South America. They are popular due to the wide variety of color patterns that exist in the hobby, including Blue, Opal, and various wild-types. They get their common name, the Umbrella Apisto, from their tall and softly-curved dorsal fin that can nearly double their vertical body size. Males have blue bodies and bright yellow faces, while females are completely yellow and don't have fins that are exaggerated. A sandy substrate is necessary due to their earth-eating habits. The tank should be furnished with several caves or nooks to protect and spawn in. Cichlid caves, overturned flower pots, and leaf litter work well. Breeding is achieved by feeding live baby brine shrimp to an adult pair and providing a proper tank setup. Fry are guarded by one or both parents for several weeks. Dither fish such as small tetras and livebearers can be used to provide parents with targets to chase. Scientific Name: Apistogramma borellii Common Name: Opal Umbrella Apisto Max Size: 2.5" pH: 5.0-7.5 Hardness: Soft Temperature: 70-82° Aggressiveness: Peaceful Region of Origin: South America Captive Bred or Wild: Captive Bred Diet: Small flake or pellet, small frozen or live foods Compatibility: Schooling fish, plecos, small catfish, livebearers, rainbowfish. Tank Mate Options: Cardinal Tetra Super Red Bushynose Pleco Phoenix Tetra
