Apistogramma Borellii

Apistogramma borellii

Animalia›Chordata›Actinopterygii›Cichlidae

Variety of Borellii Dwarf Cichlid · umbrella

📍 Paraguay Basin, South America

One of the most beginner-friendly dwarf cichlids, the Borellii features soft blue and yellow colouration. Males develop longer fins and brighter colours. Peaceful by cichlid standards and tolerant of a wider range of water conditions than most Apistogramma species.

Size3"

Min Tank20g

School2+

semi-aggressive

Zonebottom

Care Guide

Diet

Umbrella Dwarf Cichlids are omnivorous and should be fed high-quality micro pellets as a staple, supplemented 2-3 times weekly with frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. They will also graze on algae and biofilm in planted tanks. Feed small portions once daily, only what they can consume in 2-3 minutes.

Behavior

These peaceful dwarf cichlids are bottom-dwellers that spend much of their time foraging along the substrate and exploring vegetation. They are less aggressive than many Apistogramma species and do well in pairs or small groups with adequate territory. Males display vibrant yellow coloration and blue iridescence, especially during breeding or territorial displays.

Breeding

Breeding in captivity is moderately difficult and requires cooler water temperatures (22-24°C), slightly acidic conditions (pH 5.5-6.5), and plenty of hiding spots such as caves or dense plants. Pairs are monogamous and will guard eggs and fry aggressively. Fry are small and require infusoria or liquid fry food initially before graduating to micro foods.

Tank Mates

Otocinclus

Peaceful algae eater that shares bottom habitat without competing for food or territory

excellent

Ember Tetra

Small, peaceful schooling fish that occupy mid-water and don't threaten or compete with dwarf cichlids

excellent

Red Cherry Shrimp

Peaceful invertebrates that help with algae control; may lose some to predation but generally compatible

good

Anubias Barteri

Hardy plant that provides shelter and won't be uprooted by gentle cichlid behavior

excellent

Common Diseases

Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis)

Symptoms

White spots on body and fins, rapid breathing, lethargy, rubbing against objects

Treatment

Raise temperature gradually to 28-30°C, perform daily 25% water changes, use aquarium salt (1 tsp per 5 gallons) or commercial ich treatment; treat for 10-14 days

Fin Rot

Symptoms

Frayed or deteriorating fin edges, discoloration at fin margins, lethargy

Treatment

Improve water quality with frequent partial water changes, reduce stress, use antibacterial medication if severe; ensure good filtration and avoid sharp decorations

Dwarf Cichlid Disease (Hexamita)

Symptoms

Loss of appetite, white stringy feces, weight loss, hole-in-the-head lesions in advanced cases

Treatment

Perform large water changes, use metronidazole-based medication, improve water quality and reduce stress; feed high-quality foods with vitamin supplementation