• Scientific name: Apistogramma bitaeniata
• Synonyms: Apistogramma klausewitzi, A. kleei, A. pertense var. bitaeniata
• Common name: Banded Dwarf Cichlid, Two-striped Apisto
• Group: Cichlids
• Habitat: South America; Peru and Brazil
• Size: Male: 9 cm; female: 6,5 cm
• Biotope: Inhabits slow-moving blackwater streams, creeks and tributaries, as well as smaller rivers, where the substrate is normally littered with fallen tree branches and rotting leaves.
• Social behavior: Territorial and tolerant with its own species. It is polygamous, forming harems. The females will select smaller territories with the male dominant over all.
• Diet: Carnivorous; All types of live foods, such as daphnia, tubifex worms and mosquito larvae. Rarely they accept flakes.
• Breeding: Quite easy
• Tank: Minimum 65 litres
• Population: 1 male and 3-4 females for 100 litres.
• Decoration: Recommend dense vegetation with places to hide among rocks and roots. An open area for swimming is important. A dark bottom is basic. Strong water flow should be avoided. Use dim lighting.
• Temperature: 24-27°C
• pH: 5,5-7
• Hardness: 2-6 NK°
• Lifespan: 5 years
  

Description: The male is longer with the dorsal fin more brightly colored. Females tend towards a uniform yellow colour. For breeding needs acid, soft to medium-hard water, pH 5.0-6.0 and hardness 2-6° dGH at temperatures between 25-27 °C. Do not allow a hardness above 10° dGH. Add peat and regular changes of fresh water. The fish are cave breeders and generally spawn 40-60 eggs, attached to the roof. The female guards the eggs, while the male guards the territory. The female leads her fry in schools.