Biotodoma wavrini (Orinoco Form)

Biotodoma wavrini is a small to medium-sized geophagine cichlid primarily distributed through the Orinoco system and western Amazon tributaries. The Orinoco form is particularly attractive, displaying a large, well-defined lateral spot encircled by vivid blue-green iridescent scaling, along with subtle orange tones on the belly and fin margins in breeding condition.

Biotodoma species are peaceful, substrate-sifting cichlids that spend much of their time mouthing fine sand in search of small invertebrates and organic particles. They require a fine sandy substrate to allow this natural foraging behaviour and will show stress-related symptoms if kept on coarse gravel. They are not aggressive toward other fish.

The Orinoco form of B. wavrini is occasionally available through specialist importers and represents an excellent subject for a Orinoco biotope aquarium. It pairs well with other blackwater/clearwater Orinoco species such as cardinal tetras, Mesonauta, and smaller Geophagus.

Water: Temperature 25–29°C, pH 4.5–6.5, GH 0–8, KH 0–4; soft, slightly acidic water closely matching Orinoco conditions. Tank: 150 L minimum; fine white sand substrate essential for natural sifting; minimal flow; driftwood and leaf litter. Feeding: Finely sifted small invertebrates, fine-grained cichlid pellets, frozen baby brine shrimp, and cyclops. Breeding: Open/pit spawner on sandy substrate; both parents guard eggs; soft acidic water improves success. Compatibility: Peaceful with small to medium non-aggressive fish; ideal for Orinoco blackwater biotope communities.