Can I keep a single pair of Borelli's Dwarf Cichlids?

Yes, a single pair can thrive in an aquarium from 60 litres upwards. However, providing a male with a harem of two to three females in a larger tank (100+ litres) mimics their natural social structure and spreads any male harassment.

Why is my female Apistogramma suddenly bright yellow?

A bright yellow colouration accompanied by stark black facial stripes and pectoral fins is the classic breeding dress of a female *Apistogramma*. It signals she is either ready to spawn, actively guarding eggs, or herding free-swimming fry.

Do I need an aquarium heater for them?

If your home maintains a steady room temperature around 20-22°C year-round, you may not need a heater, as they naturally experience cooler temperatures. However, using an adjustable heater set to 22°C is recommended to prevent dangerous sudden drops during cold nights.

Will they dig up my aquarium plants?

No. While they naturally sift fine sand through their gills to find small food particles, they are not destructive diggers like larger Central American cichlids and are completely safe for planted aquariums.

Can I keep them with ornamental shrimp?

Adult Amano shrimp or large Bamboo shrimp are generally safe, but small dwarf shrimp species like Cherry Shrimp (Neocaridina) will be hunted and eaten by the cichlids.

FreshwaterTropicalIntermediate

Borelli's Dwarf Cichlid

Apistogramma borellii

A peaceful and striking South American dwarf cichlid, renowned for the male's impressive 'umbrella' dorsal fin and their tolerance for slightly cooler aquarium conditions.

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Ideal Conditions

Temperature: 20 – 26 °C
pH range: 5.5 – 7.5
Hardness: 1 – 10 dGH
Adult size: 4 – 8 cm
60L for a single pair, 100L+ for a harem: 60 litres+
Lifespan: 3 – 5 years
Diet: Omnivore/Micropredator
Water flow: Gentle
Preferred setup: Sand substrate, abundant leaf litter, caves, and dense planting.

About the Borelli's Dwarf Cichlid

Borelli's Dwarf Cichlid (*Apistogramma borellii*), frequently referred to as the Umbrella Cichlid, is arguably one of the most accessible and visually rewarding South American dwarf cichlids. Males sport spectacular, high-crested dorsal fins that fan out majestically during displays, paired with varying degrees of vibrant blue and yellow colouration. Originating from the Paraguay and Paraná River basins, notably the vast Pantanal wetlands, this species naturally experiences seasonal temperature drops. Consequently, it requires slightly cooler water than many of its Amazonian cousins, making it an excellent candidate for unheated or cooler tropical setups. Their relatively mild temperament adds to their immense appeal for planted community aquariums.

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Is it right for your tank?

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Where Borelli's Dwarf Cichlid comes from

Native range

Paraguay River Basin, Paraná River Basin, Pantanal

Countries / regions

Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina

Habitat

Slow-moving or still waters with sandy substrates, heavy leaf litter, and overhanging vegetation.

Populations in the extreme southern end of their range experience cooler winter temperatures down to 16°C.

Similar species

Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid
Apistogramma cacatuoides
Agassiz's Dwarf Cichlid
Apistogramma agassizii
Bolivian Ram
Mikrogeophagus altispinosus

We’re adding more full species guides as the catalogue grows.

Compatible tank mates

Reviewed guidance based on this species' recorded traits.

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Eques Pencilfish
Nannostomus eques
Top-dwelling dither fish that provide reassurance without competing for bottom space.
Great
Neon Tetra
Paracheirodon innesi
Peaceful mid-water shoalers that enjoy similar slightly cooler, soft water conditions.
Great
Otocinclus Catfish
Otocinclus vittatus
Gentle algae grazers that ignore cichlid territories and are rarely targeted.
Great
Peppered Corydoras
Corydoras paleatus
Corydoras do not understand territorial boundaries and may be relentlessly harassed by breeding Apistogrammas.
Compatible with caution
Cherry Shrimp
Neocaridina davidi
Small dwarf shrimp are seen as natural prey by micropredatory cichlids and will eventually be eaten.
Not recommended

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