Apistogramma gibbiceps

Apistogramma gibbiceps is a species described in 1969 from fish imported for the aquarium trade, ranging in Brazil across the Rio Branco and the middle Rio Negro. A. roraimae, described from the Rio Branco, is today considered a synonym of this species. The male's dorsal and anal fins are long; there is a short extension in the middle of each of the two tail lobes. In both sexes a row of short dark marks can be seen below the lateral band, near the belly; this mark becomes more distinct in calm fish.

• At least 60 liters for one male and two females; caves and leaf litter.
• 27–29°C, pH 5–6.5, GH 3 at most; RO water is usually needed.
• Fine sand, roots, dim light; values should be kept stable.

Carnivorous. It feeds on small live or frozen foods such as cyclops, brine shrimp, daphnia and fine bloodworms; it accepts dry food once accustomed to it.

It sets up small territories on the bottom. The female spawns on the ceiling of the cave and becomes aggressive while guarding the fry. It gets along well with calm fish that like warm, soft water; it hunts shrimplets.

Good companions: cardinal tetras, pencilfish, hatchetfish, small blackwater rasboras.

Avoid: species that need cool or hard water, busy barbs, large cichlids, shrimp breeding.