Sp. Alto Apistogramma

Apistogramma sp. 'Alto' is a hobbyist-designated form from the upper Orinoco headwaters, noted for the exceptionally tall, sail-like dorsal fin of breeding males displaying vivid contrasting blue-and-red colouration. Like other upper Orinoco Apistogramma, it originates from very soft, acidic blackwater habitats and requires similar conditions in captivity. A spectacular display fish for the serious dwarf cichlid keeper.

Maintain extremely soft, acidic water (pH 4.5–6.0, GH <4) using RO water with tannin supplementation. Provide caves, overhangs, and dense planting for breeding shelter. Feed live and frozen micro prey: baby brine shrimp, micro worms, frozen Cyclops. Keep as a pair or trio (1 male, 2–3 females) per territory. Females adopt intense yellow breeding colour and guard eggs/fry fiercely.