Apistogramma are just wonderful dwarf cichlids, and the “Opal Borellii”, Apistogramma borellii “Opal”, is a popular and stunning one suitable for the newcomer to Apistos. Males max out at just over 2.5 inches in length, females 2″. Also called the “Umbrella Cichlid” given its sail-like dorsal fin, this is just hands down one of the prettier Apistos in the market. As with all Apistos, they’ll prefer softer, acidic water, but as captive-bred fish, they’ll be far more tolerant than wild-caught counterparts.
The specimens offered at this time are TINY. Eg. 0.5″ tiny. “Juveniles” hardly describes them, some might still call them FRY! But, with that small size, comes a very small price! Regionally produced in Wisconsin, you’re supporting multiple small fish companies with your purchase. I’ve been told that this is one of the slower-growing Apistos, so know that you’re going to get to enjoy these fish for a long time as they mature and hopefully pair off.
Check out this great video example of a courting pair by Youtuber Trakarn Satuphap:
Image Credit: The current adult Male A. borellii “Opal” image was taken by Dornenwolf, and is CC BY 2.0