Two-Striped Dwarf Cichlid (Apistogramma bitaeniata) – Tank-Bred

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The Two-Striped Dwarf Cichlid is one of the most striking members of the Apistogramma genus, known for its iridescent body coloration and bold double-stripe pattern. Native to the soft, tannin-rich waters of the Amazon basin, this stunning dwarf cichlid displays radiant hues of blue, yellow, and red depending on its locality. Our specimens are tank-bred and adapted to aquarium life, making them more hardy and beginner-friendly than their wild-caught counterparts.

What We Love About This Fish:

• Dazzling Coloration: Males in particular show brilliant electric blues, shimmering golds, and bold black stripes.
• Peaceful Personality (for a cichlid): Can be kept in peaceful community aquariums with proper tankmates.
• Small Size, Big Presence: Their confident behavior and vivid appearance make them ideal showpiece fish for smaller tanks.
• Natural Breeding Behavior: Fascinating to watch during spawning—especially the female’s parenting display.

Natural Habitat:

Found in slow-moving streams and floodplain pools in Peru and Brazil, the Two-Striped Dwarf Cichlid thrives in warm, soft, acidic water rich in leaf litter and submerged branches. Their environment is often shaded and tinted brown with tannins from decaying plant matter.

Aquascaping:

• Plants: Floating plants like Frogbit or Water Lettuce help diffuse light. Rooted plants like Amazon Sword, Cryptocoryne, and Java Fern make ideal cover.
• Hardscape: Include driftwood, coconut hides, and caves for territory and breeding.
• Botanicals: Add Indian Almond Leaves, Catappa Bark, and alder cones for tannins and natural shelter.

Diet and Feeding:

These omnivores do best with a high-protein diet. Offer quality sinking pellets, frozen foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia), and live treats like blackworms for optimal health and coloration.

Tank Mates and Compatibility:

Compatible with peaceful mid- to upper-level fish like pencilfish, small tetras, hatchetfish, and Corydoras. Avoid boisterous or fin-nipping species, and ensure plenty of space if housing multiple Apistogrammas to avoid territorial disputes.

Shrimp Safe:

Generally safe with adult shrimp, though smaller shrimp or fry may be preyed upon. Provide ample cover if keeping with dwarf shrimp.

Breeding:

A cave-spawner and attentive parent, the female typically guards the eggs and fry while the male patrols the territory. Slightly lower pH and warm temperatures encourage breeding. Conditioning with live food can help trigger spawning.

Recommended Tank Parameters:

• Temperature: 76° – 84° F (24° – 29° C)
• pH: 5.5 – 7.0
• KH: 0 – 4 dKH
• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (for a pair or harem)

Care Guidelines:

• Diet: Omnivorous—requires a variety of high-protein foods.
• Social Behavior: Semi-aggressive when breeding; best kept as a pair or a male with 2 females in larger tanks.
• Origin: Tank-bred.
• Average Adult Size: 2.5 – 3 inches (6.3 – 7.6 cm)
• Average Purchase Size: 1.25 – 1.75 inches (3.2 – 4.4 cm)

Looking for a centerpiece fish that dazzles with both beauty and personality? The Two-Striped Dwarf Cichlid brings Amazonian flair and rewarding behavior to any well-planned setup.

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