Umbrella Apistogramma - Apistogramma borellii : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide

Introduction

Umbrella Apistogrammas (Apistogramma borellii) are renowned for their distinct characteristics and captivating presence. With their striking appearance and intricate behaviours, these fish have earned a prominent place among aquarists and enthusiasts. Exploring its unique traits and habitat preferences unveils a species that demands appreciation and careful consideration within aquarium keeping.

While inherently inclined towards peaceful behaviour, Umbrella Apistogrammas exhibit a propensity for territoriality during their breeding phases. Optimal management involves maintaining solitary pairs or, in more capacious aquatic settings, a solitary male accompanied by multiple females, constituting a harem structure. Notably, the females are predisposed to establishing discrete territories, thus underscoring the significance of incorporating a profusion of visual partitions within the tank.

When considering compatible tankmates, judicious selections are advised. Corydoras Catfish, Hatchetfish, Pencilfish, diminutive Tetras, and Plecos, can foster harmonious cohabitation. Such selections are predicated upon synergies in terms of behaviour and environmental preferences, thereby promoting a balanced and tranquil community dynamic.

For the successful maintenance of these fish within a domestic aquarium, it is imperative to cultivate an environment characterized by specific water parameters and an intricately designed habitat. Firstly, the aquatic milieu should consist of soft, mildly acidic water maintained at a temperature below the norm. Before introducing these fish, it is prudent to ensure the thorough maturation of the aquarium, fostering a stable and balanced ecosystem. The aesthetic composition of the enclosure is a critical facet. Dark substrate is a judicious choice, complemented by abundant lush plant life. Including densely planted areas contributes to both the visual allure and the provision of shelter. Incorporating natural elements such as rocks and bogwood further amplifies the habitat's complexity, providing numerous secluded retreats.

While the fish exhibit an adaptable disposition towards decor aesthetics, they notably appreciate the presence of pristine terracotta flower pots or similar structures. The judicious use of floating plant cover can effectively diffuse ambient light, enhancing the overall ambience. Implementing peat filtration and integrating Indian Almond Leaves constitutes a favourable measure to replicate their preferred environmental conditions. Additionally, it is imperative to acknowledge their propensity for leaping, necessitating a securely fitted tank cover to prevent escape. Similar to various other species within the Apistogramma genus, these Apistos demonstrate limited tolerance to elevated nitrate concentrations. Ensuring the sustained welfare of this species necessitates implementing routine partial water changes as an imperative practice.

The Umbrella Apistogrammas are distinguished prominently by their captivating chromatic manifestations, a feature that is especially conspicuous in the male specimens. Umbrella Apistogrammas exhibit remarkable polychromatism, showcasing an array of diverse colour patterns across their range. Interestingly, a singular collection site can yield multiple discernible colour variants, underscoring the species' intrinsic variability. In their natural habitats, a myriad of forms exists, some notably distinguished by vibrant hues. Among these, certain male specimens stand out with captivating facial streaks in vivid red tones, rendering them particularly noteworthy.

Dr Uwe Römer's insights elucidate that wild imports consistently display metallic blue hues among all male individuals. A notable proportion, ranging from 30 to 40 per cent, additionally exhibit extensive yellow pigmentation, while an intriguing 10 per cent feature distinctive red facial markings, further contributing to the species' intricate spectrum of colouration.