Apistogramma Elizabethae
Apistogramma Elizabethae is backordered and will ship as soon as it is back in stock.
Delivery and Shipping
Delivery and Shipping
Product Refunds & Returns
- Returns can be processed within 14 days from purchase.
- To return products, they must be in original condition
- Shipping expenses are not refundable
- If your items have been damaged in shipping, please contact us within 24 hours of receipt with photos, and we will assist you.
Dead on Arrival (DOA) Policy – Shipped Orders Only
- We guarantee live arrival on all shipped livestock when:
- The package is received on the first delivery attempt.
- Clear photos of the unopened shipping bag and deceased animal are emailed to us within 2 hours of delivery confirmation.
- If these conditions are met, we will provide a replacement or store credit. Shipping charges are non-refundable.
7-Day Livestock Guarantee (Local & Shipped Orders)
- We guarantee our livestock for 7 days from purchase/delivery if our care recommendations and tank requirements were followed.
- Proof Required: We may require photos of the deceased animal, proof of purchase (receipt/order number), and/or a water sample from your tank for testing.
Livestock Refunds, Returns, & Surrenders
- Local customers may return livestock within 72 hours of purchase for a refund, provided the animal is alive and in original condition. Returns must be brought to the store; we do not provide pickup services.
Apistogramma Elizabethae
Description
Description
Apistogramma elizabethae, also known as Elizabeth's Apistogramma or Elizabeth's Red Dwarf Cichlid, is a stunning and relatively rare species of dwarf cichlid native to the upper Rio Negro basin in Brazil.
Species Overview
- Scientific Name: Apistogramma elizabethae
- Size: Up to 5 cm (2 inches)
- Lifespan: ~5 years
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive, especially during breeding
- Difficulty: Intermediate to advanced aquarists
Natural Habitat
- Found in slow-moving tributaries and leaf-litter-rich creeks of the Rio Uaupés and Rio Içana in Brazil
- Prefers soft, acidic water (pH 4.0–6.0, GH 2–8, temperature 22–29°C).
- Substrate is typically dark and sandy, with dense vegetation and leaf litter providing cover and spawning sites
Aquarium Setup
- Tank Size: Minimum 45×30 cm base for a pair; larger for groups
- Substrate: Fine sand is ideal for natural sifting behavior
- Décor: Include driftwood, rocks, coconut shells, and dried leaves (e.g., Indian Almond or alder cones).
- Lighting: Dim lighting with floating plants to diffuse light.
- Filtration: Gentle flow; sponge filters are preferred.
- Water Changes: Regular partial changes to maintain low nitrate levels.
Diet
- Omnivorous: In the wild, they eat algae, detritus, and small invertebrates
- In captivity, feed:
- High-quality flakes or pellets
- Live/frozen foods: bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia
- Variety is key to maintaining health and coloration
Breeding Behavior
- Substrate spawners: Eggs are laid in crevices or caves
- Males: Defend territory and court multiple females.
- Females: Guard eggs and fry, becoming brightly yellow with black markings during breeding
- Incubation: 36–72 hours depending on temperature.
- Fry Care: Sensitive to water chemistry; feed small meals multiple times daily and perform gentle water changes
Sexual Dimorphism & Coloration
- Males: Blue-grey base with vivid blue and orange-yellow highlights; elongated dorsal rays and spade-shaped tail.
- Females: Olive-colored normally, but turn bright yellow with black spots during breeding
- Variants: Includes “super red” and blue-marked forms depending on collection locality
Specifications
Specifications
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CategoryCichlids
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Species TypeDwarf Cichlid
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Water Temperature
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Minimum Tank Size20 Gallons
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Water pH LevelAcidic, Neutral
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Habitat PreferenceDriftwood, Hiding Spots, Planted Tanks, Rocky Tanks
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BehaviourSemi-aggressive, Community Fish
Payment & Security
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