How to Breed an Apistogramma Bitaeniata

The Apistogramma bitaeniata, also known as the Banded Apisto or Two-Striped Apisto, is a small freshwater fish in the cichlid family. Usually cichlids grow to be quite large, but the Two-Striped Apisto is a dwarf cichlid and only grows to about three or four inches long. They have large, spiky fins and bands of black and silver colors running along their length. These small fish breed when they feel comfortable in their habitats. Providing the correct habitat, water conditions and food should induce the Two-Striped Apistos to breed.

Things You'll Need

  • Breeding aquarium
  • Aquarium plants
  • Aquarium decorations
  • Water testing kit
  • Various live fish foods
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Instructions

    • 1

      Select one male and three female Two-Striped Apistos for breeding. Although normally a peaceful fish, the Two-Striped Apistos can become aggressive when breeding. If there are not enough females, the male may attack one of the females. To determine their sex, look at the fins, size and coloring of the fish. Male Two-Striped Apistos are larger and have longer, extended fins. The males of this species also sport brighter colors and have more prominent stripes. The females are more solid yellow.

    • 2

      Place the four fish in a separate breeding aquarium. This will ensure that no other fish bother them as they prepare to breed.

    • 3

      Place aquarium plants in the aquarium. These will provide hiding places for the females. Also, place three or four cave structures in the aquarium. These can be ready-made aquarium decorations or securely stacked rocks. Each female will choose a cave as her territory. It is helpful if the male is too large to enter the caves so that the females have safe places to hide.

    • 4

      Test the water with a water testing kit. Soft, acidic water is needed for the Two-Striped Apistos to breed. The pH of the water should be between 5.5 and 6.5. The water hardness level should be between zero and four. Water additives can be used to raise or lower these levels if necessary.

    • 5

      Perform partial water changes often by replacing a portion of dirty aquarium water with fresh water. Small, frequent water changes encourage spawning.

    • 6

      Feed the fish various live foods, such as bloodworms or brine shrimp.

    • 7

      Wait for the Two-Striped Apistos to breed. Eventually, the male will breed with one of the females. The female will then lay her eggs in her territory. She will guard the eggs and the young fish after they hatch. The eggs usually take about three days to hatch. Meanwhile, the male may mate with the other females in the aquarium.