Apistogramma erythrura-"Rio Mamore"

The Rio Mamoré Apistogramma, scientifically referred to as Apistogramma cf. erythrura “Rio Mamoré,” is a colorful dwarf cichlid collected from the Mamoré River system in Bolivia. This form is regarded as a geographic variant of Apistogramma erythrura and is prized for its fiery coloration and striking finnage.

Adult males typically reach about 2.5 to 3 inches (6 to 7.5 cm) in length, while females remain smaller. Males display vivid reddish-orange in the caudal fin (the defining trait of erythrura), often edged with blue or turquoise highlights, along with yellow to golden hues on the body. The dorsal and anal fins are elongated and show red, blue, and black accents. Females are more subdued but become a vibrant yellow with dark barring when guarding eggs or fry.

A tank of at least 20 gallons is recommended for a pair or small group. Provide a fine sand substrate, leaf litter, driftwood, and multiple caves or shelters, as this species is strongly cave-spawning. Floating plants and subdued lighting help mimic their natural habitat of shaded, tannin-stained waters.

Water parameters should include a temperature range of 76 to 82°F (24 to 28°C), a pH between 5.0 and 6.8, and very soft water, ideally under 5 dGH. Clean, stable conditions are critical for long-term health and breeding success.

Feeding Apistogramma cf. erythrura “Rio Mamoré” is straightforward. They are micropredators and thrive on live or frozen foods such as baby brine shrimp, daphnia, cyclops, and bloodworms. They will also accept high-quality micro pellets formulated for small cichlids.

These fish are peaceful with other small, calm species but can be territorial, especially when breeding. Good tankmates include small tetras, pencilfish, hatchetfish, Corydoras, and other non-aggressive fishes that occupy different zones.

Breeding is possible in aquaria and follows typical Apistogramma behavior. Females deposit eggs inside a cave and guard them aggressively, while the male patrols the larger territory. Fry become free-swimming within a week and can be fed on infusoria at first, followed by newly hatched brine shrimp.

Apistogramma cf. erythrura “Rio Mamoré” is a beautiful and rewarding species, offering aquarists the opportunity to keep one of the most vividly colored Apistogramma forms, with striking red tails and dynamic breeding behavior that make it a centerpiece in a South American blackwater aquarium.