Flabellicauda Apistogramma - Apistogramma flabellicauda : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
Flabellicauda Apistogrammas (Apistogramma flabellicauda) are highly sought after by aquarium enthusiasts for their vibrant colours and intricate behaviour. Its manageable size and relatively peaceful nature make it a popular choice for hobbyists looking to create a slice of the Amazon in their homes. However, providing them with the right environment, diet, and care is essential for ensuring their well-being and allowing them to thrive in captivity.
Flabellicauda Apistogrammas are known for their intricate behaviour, which is fascinating to observe in a well-maintained aquarium. It is a relatively peaceful cichlid species, making it suitable for community tanks containing other peaceful fish of similar size. However, due to their relatively small size and shy nature, they should not be housed with larger or more aggressive fish that might intimidate them.
When setting up an aquarium for these Apistos, it is important to replicate their natural habitat. This includes providing plenty of hiding spots using driftwood, rocks, and plants. These hiding places not only mimic their natural environment but also help reduce stress and promote healthy behaviour. Regular water changes and a well-maintained filtration system are essential for maintaining good water quality.
Flabellicauda Apistogrammas have silvery bodies and three abdominal stripes; the lateral band extends to the middle of the caudal fin, and the limited and indistinct pattern of caudal fin stripes, which forms a fan-like extension of the lateral band and covers only the middle rays of the caudal fin.
Flabellicauda Apistogramma Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Across the diverse array of Apistos, including Flabellicauda Apistogrammas, certain commonalities prevail. Predominantly, substantial sexual dimorphism is exhibited, wherein males tend to surpass females in both size and vibrancy. While a subset of species does display relatively minor distinctions between genders, the majority of species manifest remarkable dimorphic characteristics.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Apistogramma flabellicauda |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 2011 |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cichliformes |
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Genus | Apistogramma |
| Origins | Venezuela |
| Max Size | 7 cm |
| Temperament | Semi-Aggressive |
| Aquarium Level | Bottom - Middle |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | 2 Females per Male |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg Depositor |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 5 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 4.5 - 7.5 |
| GH | 1 - 6 |
| ℉ | 73 - 84 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 22 - 28 |
Natural Habitat
Flabellicauda Apistogrammas originate from the aquatic ecosystems of the Rio Orinoco and the Rio Autana Basins, situated near the village of La Ceguera within the Venezuelan state of Amazonas, South America. This particular Apistogramma species predominantly inhabit environments characterized by leisurely water flow and a near-stagnant quality.
Within these habitats, the riverbed commonly features an abundance of intertwined branches and partially decomposed leaves, collectively engendering an assortment of concealed spaces suitable for refuge and shelter. Notably, the prevailing water conditions are distinguished by their characteristic attributes.
The water is typified by a soft mineral content, giving rise to a reduced pH value. Moreover, the water's discernible tea-like hue is attributed to the leaching and fragmentation of vegetative matter from both submerged roots and suspended branches.
Breeding
Breeding Flabellicauda Apistogrammas exemplifies a gratifying yet intricate endeavour due to its elaborate breeding behaviours and specific prerequisites essential for fruitful reproduction.
Selecting a mature and robust breeding pair necessitates careful observation of their interactions within a group of juvenile Apistogrammas. Concomitantly, establishing a meticulously appointed habitat, replete with concealed retreats such as caves and driftwood, authenticates their natural milieu. Maintaining a soft, mildly acidic aquatic milieu with a pH range spanning from 6.0 to 7.0 and a temperature gradient spanning 76°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C) further attests to the meticulousness required.
In anticipation of commencing the breeding process, a comprehensive dietary regimen inclusive of live or frozen constituents such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms is prescribed to fortify the prospective pair. Subsequently, the pairing is introduced within the confines of a dedicated breeding enclosure, wherein meticulous observation of their interactions ensues. Evidently, the readiness of the female prompts the male to unveil resplendent hues and courtship behaviours.
Facilitating suitable oviposition sites notably caverns conducive to egg deposition, is paramount. In this context, the male undertakes fastidious preparations, culminating in the deposit of eggs by the female. This seminal stage is marked by the subsequent fertilization of the eggs by the diligent male.
The ensuing guardianship undertaken by the male, characterized by territorial assertion and vigilant repulsion of intruders, underscores the heightened protective instinct associated with this phase. The female's proximity is notable, symbolizing a supportive role.
Vigilant aeration of the eggs is meticulously undertaken by the male, thereby curbing the risk of fungal proliferation. The imperative of optimal water quality underscores this pivotal stage, augmented by the judicious application of commercial interventions should fungal manifestations arise.
The eventual hatching of eggs, transpiring within a limited span, is succeeded by the unwavering commitment of the male toward fry safeguarding. In parallel, as fry gains independence and traverses the water column, providing minute sustenance such as infusoria or specialized fry nourishment emerges as paramount.
Simultaneously, the gradual transition to more substantial alimentary offerings, exemplified by baby brine shrimp and microworms, necessitates ongoing scrutiny of water quality and the developmental trajectory of the fry.
Addressing the prospect of burgeoning aggression concomitant with fry maturation calls for a reasonable approach, including the contemplation of segregating them into smaller factions or discrete enclosures to engender optimal growth conditions.
Diet & Feeding
In the wild, Flabellicauda Apistogrammas are known to consume various foods, including small aquatic insects, crustaceans, and plant matter. In captivity, they should be provided with a well-rounded diet consisting of high-quality pellets, flakes, frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. Offering a diverse diet helps promote vibrant colours and overall health.
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