Apistogramma Bitaeniata Tefe Pairs

Apistogramma bitaeniata “Tefé” pairs are a stunning and sought-after variant of the Banded Apistogramma, known for their vibrant coloration and fascinating breeding behavior. 

Species Overview

• Origin: Tefé, Amazonas State, Brazil
• Size: Males up to ~3 inches (7.5 cm); females slightly smaller
• Appearance: Males are dark with elongated bodies, yellow-striped caudal fins, black horizontal striping, and periwinkle-hued fins. Females are lemon-yellow with a paler horizontal stripe 

Tank Setup for Pairs

• Tank Size: Minimum 20-gallon long tank preferred for floor space
• Substrate: Fine sand is ideal for natural behavior like sifting and nest building 
• Decor: Include leaf litter, driftwood, rocks, and multiple caves for spawning. Floating plants help dim lighting and create a natural feel 
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 74–82°F (23–28°C)
  • pH: 4.0–7.0 (acidic preferred)
  • Hardness: Soft water, under 90 ppm TDS 

Feeding

• Diet: Carnivorous—feed live or frozen invertebrates like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia. Supplement with high-quality flakes or pellets 
• Feeding Frequency: Multiple small feedings daily; females especially need to be well-fed to encourage spawning 

Breeding Behavior

• Spawning Setup: Females lay 40–60 eggs in secluded caves. Males fertilize the eggs and guard the territory while females care for the eggs and fry 
• Post-Spawning: Females become highly territorial. It's often recommended to remove the male to prevent aggression 
• Fry Care:
  • Hatch in 2–4 days depending on temperature
  • Feed infusoria, baby brine shrimp, and microworms once free-swimming 

Tips for Success

• Avoid keeping with other Apistogramma species to reduce stress and competition [
• Dither fish like pencilfish or small tetras can help reduce skittishness