Two-striped Apistogramma
Apistogramma bitaeniata
Apistogramma bitaeniata reaches up to 7 cm. Its body is elongated with two distinct black stripes on the flanks. The fins are often adorned with blue and red spots in males. The female is smaller and duller. It is a territorial but not very aggressive fish outside breeding. It lives in pairs or harems. It appreciates hiding spots like roots and dead leaves. In the aquarium, it stays near the substrate.
Recommended parameters
| Parameter | Recommended range |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 24–28 |
| pH | 6–7.5 |
| GH | 2–10 |
| KH | 1–5 |
| NO₃ | ≤ 20 |
| PO₄ | ≤ 0.5 |
Care
Care notes
Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-10. Minimum 80-liter tank for a pair or harem. Water should be soft to moderately hard with moderate filtration. Feed with meaty foods: brine shrimp, bloodworms, cichlid pellets. Dense plants and hiding spots are important. Avoid overly active fish. Compatible with peaceful tetras and corydoras.