Umbrella Cichlid, also known as Umbrella Apisto or Yellow Dwarf Cichlid, is a freshwater fish with the scientific name Apistogramma borellii.
This species is named after zoologist Alfredo Borelli who first collected it.
This fish comes from South America and is found in the Paraguay and Paraná Rivers. It can survive even in cold water temperatures, down to 6.5°C.
Umbrella Cichlids eat insects and small crustaceans like shrimp. In an aquarium, it’s best to keep them in pairs and have at least a 24-inch long tank for their comfort.
You can check out what this fish looks like over here.
Umbrella Cichlid Interesting Facts
- Umbrella Cichlids thrive in cold water temperatures, as low as 6.5°C.
- They feed on insects and small crustaceans like shrimp.
- In captivity, a 24-inch long tank is ideal for their comfort.
- Eggs are laid on cave ceilings, with the mother taking care of them.
Umbrella Cichlid Habitat
Umbrella Cichlid comes from South America, specifically the Paraguay River basin and the lower Paraná River in Argentina. It’s a freshwater fish that swims near the bottom of the water (benthopelagic).
The ideal pH range for this fish is between 6.0 to 8.0, with a water hardness (dH) range of 5 to 19. The preferred temperature for this subtropical species is between 75°F to 77°F (24°C to 25°C).
| Water Temperature: | 75°F to 77°F (24°C to 25°C) |
| Water pH: | 6.0 to 8.0 pH |
| Water Hardness: | 5 to 19 dH |
Umbrella Cichlid Physical Characteristics
Size: 1.5 inches (3.9 centimeters)
Umbrella Cichlid is a small fish, growing up to 1.5 inches (3.9 centimeters) long.
Umbrella Cichlid Reproduction
Umbrella Cichlids lay about 50 to 70 eggs at a time.
They stick the eggs to cave ceilings, and the female looks after both the eggs and baby fish.
Umbrella Cichlid Scientific Classification
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Cichliformes |
| Family: | Cichlidae |
| Genus: | Apistogramma |
| Scientific Name: | Apistogramma borellii |
| Also Known As: | Umbrella Cichlid, Umbrella Apisto, Yellow Dwarf Cichlid |
| Conservation Status: | Unknown |