Borelli's Dwarf Cichlid
Apistogramma borellii
Minimum Tank
15 Gallons
Adult Size
2.5 inches
Temperature
68-79°F (20-26°C)
pH Range
5.5-7.0
Lifespan
5 years
About Borelli's Dwarf Cichlid
Borelli's dwarf cichlid is a peaceful, beautifully colored fish from the streams and wetlands of southern Brazil, Paraguay, and northern Argentina. Males display a soft blue body with a golden-yellow face and head, creating a lovely pastel color combination. They are one of the more mild-mannered apistogramma species, making them suitable for community tanks with other small, peaceful fish. Borelli's dwarf cichlids are notably more cold-tolerant than most tropical fish, naturally experiencing temperatures in the low 60s during winter in their subtropical habitat. Their gentle demeanor and attractive coloring have earned them a devoted following among dwarf cichlid enthusiasts.
Care Requirements
Tank Setup
- • Minimum 15-gallon tank required
- • Temperature: 68-79°F (20-26°C)
- • pH: 5.5 - 7.0
- • Category: Cichlid
Diet & Feeding
- • Diet type: Omnivore
- • Feed 1-2 times daily
- • Varied diet recommended
Tank Mate Compatibility
Compatible With
Avoid Keeping With
Care Tips
Expert Tips
Borelli's dwarf cichlids are hardier and more cold-tolerant than most apistogramma species, doing well at 68-79°F. They prefer soft, slightly acidic water but adapt to moderate hardness. Provide caves and dense planting with a sandy substrate in a tank of at least 15 gallons. Males are less aggressive than many apistogramma species and can sometimes be kept in pairs rather than harems. Feed quality micro-pellets, frozen bloodworms, and brine shrimp. They are generally peaceful enough for community tanks with small tetras and corydoras. Breeding behavior is typical of apistogramma, with females guarding eggs in caves and leading fry around the tank.
Quick Facts
57L
Min Tank (15gal)
6cm
Adult Size (2.5")
5yr
Lifespan
1+
Can Keep Solo
Build Your Perfect Community Tank
Find compatible tankmates for your Borelli's Dwarf Cichlid
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Tank Mates for Borelli's Dwarf Cichlid
Species from our database with overlapping water parameters, compatible temperaments and a realistic shared tank size.
Bleeding Heart Tetra
Hyphessobrycon erythrostigma
moderate · 20+ gal
Cardinal Tetra
Paracheirodon axelrodi
moderate · 15+ gal
Phoenix Rasbora
Boraras merah
moderate · 5+ gal
Chili Rasbora
Boraras brigittae
moderate · 5+ gal
Similar Care Level
Other moderate-care species that suit a comparable setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tank does a Borelli's Dwarf Cichlid need?
A Borelli's Dwarf Cichlid needs a minimum tank size of 15 gallons (57 litres).
What water parameters does a Borelli's Dwarf Cichlid need?
Borelli's Dwarf Cichlid thrive in water between 68-79°F (20-26°C) with a pH of 5.5-7.0.
Are Borelli's Dwarf Cichlid easy to care for?
Borelli's Dwarf Cichlid are considered moderate to care for. They are peaceful fish with a lifespan of about 5 years.
How big do Borelli's Dwarf Cichlid get and what do they eat?
Borelli's Dwarf Cichlid reach about 2.5 inches and are omnivores. Borelli's dwarf cichlids are hardier and more cold-tolerant than most apistogramma species, doing well at 68-79°F. They prefer soft, slightly acidic water but adapt to moderate hardness. Provide caves and dense planting with a sandy substrate in a tank of at least 15 gallons. Males are less aggressive than many apistogramma species and can sometimes be kept in pairs rather than harems. Feed quality micro-pellets, frozen bloodworms, and brine shrimp. They are generally peaceful enough for community tanks with small tetras and corydoras. Breeding behavior is typical of apistogramma, with females guarding eggs in caves and leading fry around the tank.