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Midwest Aquarium and Pond Supplier LLC

(126) Umbrella Dwarf Cichlid 1-2''

(126) Umbrella Dwarf Cichlid 1-2''

$40.00 USD
$40.00 USD
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The Umbrella Dwarf Cichlid (Apistogramma borellii), also known as the Borelli's dwarf cichlid or yellow dwarf cichlid, is a smaller and more peaceful species of Apistogramma from South America. This hardy fish is an excellent choice for a community tank with smaller, non-aggressive species, even for beginner aquarists
Tank and water requirements
  • Tank size: A single pair can be housed in a 10-gallon tank, but a 20-gallon or larger is recommended for more stable water conditions and to reduce potential aggression.
  • Substrate: Fine, soft sand is preferred, as they enjoy sifting through it for food. A thick layer of leaf litter can help mimic their natural blackwater habitat.
  • Filtration: A gentle but consistent filtration system is ideal, as they prefer slow-moving water.
  • Water parameters:
    • Temperature: They can tolerate cooler water than many other Apistogramma species but thrive in a temperature range of 72–78°F (22–26°C).
    • pH: A range of 6.0–6.8 is ideal, but they can tolerate a wider range from 5.8 to 8.0. Adding Indian almond leaves can help lower pH and release beneficial tannins.
    • Water quality: Like other dwarf cichlids, they are sensitive to poor water quality. Regular, partial water changes are essential to keep nitrate levels low.
  • Decorations: Provide plenty of hiding spots and caves using driftwood and rocks. Dense live plants, especially in the corners, can create territories and make them feel more secure.
  • Lighting: Subdued or dim lighting is preferred, which can be achieved with floating plants or dense foliage. 

Diet and feeding
  • Omnivorous diet: In the wild, Umbrella Dwarf Cichlids are micropredators that feed on crustaceans and small invertebrates.
  • Food types:
    • Staple: High-quality pellets or flakes.
    • Supplements: Include live or frozen foods, such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia, to keep them healthy and vibrant.
  • Feeding schedule: Feed small amounts two to three times per day. 

Temperament and tank mates
  • Temperament: Considered one of the most peaceful Apistogramma species, they tend to be shy and will hide if housed with larger or more aggressive fish. Males can be territorial toward each other.
  • Tank mates: Choose peaceful, non-aggressive species that occupy the middle to top sections of the tank.
    • Ideal companions: Small schooling fish like tetras (e.g., Neon, Ember), pencilfish, or rasboras. Corydoras catfish and otocinclus also make great tank mates.
    • Social groups: Keep a single male with multiple females (a harem) or a large group of six or more to help spread out aggression. 

Breeding
  • Cave spawners: Umbrella Dwarf Cichlids are cave spawners, with the female guarding the eggs inside a cave.
  • Parental care: The male will defend the outer territory while the female tends to the eggs and fry.
  • Encouraging spawning: Raise the tank temperature slightly and ensure pristine water conditions.
  • Raising fry: Once free-swimming, the fry can be fed freshly hatched brine shrimp or microworms
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