Two-banded Apisto

Apistogramma diplotaenia is found in the blackwater Rio Negro of Brazil and is named for the two distinctive iridescent bands that run along its flanks. Males are spectacularly coloured with metallic blue-green scales and vivid fin pigmentation. This species is demanding in its water requirements, needing very soft, acidic, and pure blackwater conditions.

Water: 25-30°C, pH 4.5-6.5, very soft (GH 1-3); blackwater essential, minimal hardness. Tank: 80L minimum, dark sand, heavy leaf litter and tannins, dense planting, low light. Feeding: omnivore — live/frozen Artemia, Daphnia, Cyclops are critical; dry foods as supplement. Behaviour: territorial during breeding; harem setup (1M:2-3F) in larger tanks. Compatibility: species tank or with small Rio Negro blackwater tetras only.