Apistogramma urteagai
Apistogramma urteagai is a peaceful dwarf cichlid that can be kept well with other smaller fish. The company of larger fish is not recommended. A group of these animals can be kept in an aquarium of sufficient size. The aquarium should be densely planted and furnished with driftwood and roots to create hiding places. The species is somewhat sensitive to fluctuating water quality. The water should be changed regularly and in small amounts. Keeping them at higher temperatures for a long time is not recommended.
This species was officially described by Kullander in 1986. The species name urteagai is a reference to Jorge Andrés Urteaga Cavero. He was the expedition’s co-leader who collected the type material for this species.
Origin
South America; Peru where they inhabit small streams and swamp areas.
Diet
Small live foods such as Artemia and Cyclops should be given. In the wild, it is a detritus eater. In no case should mosquito larvae and tubifex be given.
Breeding Apistogramma urteagai
Breeding Apistogramma urteagai is easy. The eggs are laid in a hole and fertilized. The clutch is cared for by the female. After free swimming, the young are cared for by the female for about four weeks. They can be raised with brine shrimp nauplii.
Author
Jan Bukkems – Aquavisie
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