Umbrella Cichlid

Adults reach a length of 5–6 cm and exhibit pronounced sexual dimorphism. Males are typically more brightly colored and have elongated dorsal and anal fins. Females, though similar, appear more modest. Coloration shades can vary depending on the place of origin and the characteristics of selective breeding forms. The most common variations include blue and yellow-blue tones.

The natural habitat of this species covers the Paraná and Paraguay River basins in South America, including territories in northern Argentina, Paraguay, and the southern regions of Brazil. Interestingly, these fish are most often found not in the main channels of the rivers and their tributaries, but in extensive flooded areas. The Pantanal, the world's largest wetland system, is a typical environment for Apistogramma borellii.

This fish is distinguished by its peaceful and calm disposition, coexisting well with both its own kind and other species of similar size and temperament. The best results are usually achieved when kept with South American characins. It is important to note that during spawning, the female may show aggression, protecting her offspring, so it is advisable to provide a separate tank for breeding.

The Umbrella Cichlid has been successfully bred commercially in artificial aquarium conditions for a long time. This has led to modern generations of fish being well adapted to various conditions where wild populations might struggle. Thus, Apistogramma borellii can be successfully kept in any aquarium (preferably with a volume of at least 40 liters) with arbitrary decor and maintenance of acceptable hydrochemical water parameters. This species is characterized by wide permissible ranges: pH from 5.0 to 8.0 with soft to medium hardness (dGH). If the aquarist aims to create conditions as close to natural as possible, a sandy substrate is recommended. It is also beneficial to add numerous shelters in the form of snags (roots, tree branches, etc.), overgrown with mosses, ferns, and other aquatic vegetation, and to provide subdued lighting. The Pantanal wetlands, the natural habitat of Borell's Apistogramma, are rich in tannins, which give the water a characteristic brown tint. In an aquarium, a similar effect is achieved using special essences or Indian almond leaves and bark. Although this tree grows on another continent, its leaves are readily available for purchase, and the tannins they contain are identical.

This species is carnivorous, and in its natural environment, its diet consists of small invertebrates, crustaceans, and larvae, which the fish finds near the bottom. In a home aquarium, live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, daphnia, and brine shrimp can be offered. Some types of dry foods are also suitable, particularly granules and flakes with high protein content.

Under favorable conditions and with sexually mature male and female, spawning will occur regularly. The fish lay their eggs in shelters, preferring crevices or cavities among decor elements. For several weeks, the female actively protects her clutch, and then the hatched fry, and during this period, other aquarium inhabitants should keep their distance from her.

The main cause of most diseases in Leaf Fish is unsuitable keeping conditions and poor-quality nutrition. If initial symptoms are observed, it is first necessary to check water parameters and the concentration of dangerous substances such as ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates. If the indicators deviate from the norm, they should be brought back into order, and only then should treatment begin. More detailed information on symptoms and treatment methods can be found in the "Aquarium Fish Diseases" section.

When choosing Borell's Apistogramma at a store, pay attention to the fish's activity and appearance. Healthy individuals should show curiosity, swim freely in the water column, and not constantly hide in the corners of the aquarium. Avoid specimens with signs of emaciation, sunken bellies, damaged fins, or visible spots on the body.

• Check for the absence of plaque, ulcers, or unnatural growths on scales and fins.
• Make sure the fish's breathing is calm, without rapid gill cover movements.
• Choose individuals that actively respond to food, as this is the best indicator of overall health and adaptation to living conditions.