Apistogramma borellii (Umbrella Cichlid)

The Apistogramma borellii (Umbrella Cichlid), scientifically known as Apistogramma borellii, belongs to the Cichlids - South American family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 7 cm and have a compressed body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as mostly peaceful, this species primarily occupies the bottom and mid-level zones of the aquarium and produces a low level of biological waste.

To thrive, the Apistogramma borellii (Umbrella Cichlid) requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 55 litres and a tank length of at least 60 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 20°C and 26°C, with a pH range of 5.5–7.5 and a general hardness of 1–10 dGH. A low water flow is preferred.

Due to its specialist needs, the Apistogramma borellii (Umbrella Cichlid) is best suited for fishkeepers who can provide a carefully planned setup. This species is available in 2 varieties: Male (Standard / Opal) and Female. Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.

When setting up an aquarium for the Apistogramma borellii (Umbrella Cichlid), a low water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the bottom and mid-level zones, the aquarium layout should prioritise open swimming space in the centre of the tank for free movement and sufficient floor space with hiding spots among rocks, wood, or dense planting. Useful additions include a sand substrate to accommodate their sifting behaviour, driftwood, which can serve as both a hiding place and a dietary supplement, leaf litter or blackwater tannins to replicate their natural soft-water habitat, and dense planting to provide cover, break sightlines, and reduce stress.

Classified as mostly peaceful, the Apistogramma borellii (Umbrella Cichlid) is adaptable and can be kept singly or in a small group, offering flexibility when planning a community tank. When choosing tankmates, ornamental shrimp are not safe companions, territorial behaviour may cause issues if hiding spots or floor space are limited, and boisterous or fast-moving tankmates may cause this species undue stress. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the bottom and mid-level zones can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.

The Apistogramma borellii (Umbrella Cichlid) will hunt and eat ornamental shrimp, making it unsuitable for shrimp-focused setups and will eat fry, so breeding efforts in the same tank are unlikely to succeed.