Apistogramma sp. D37

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Apistogramma sp. D37, also called Kiemenfleck, is a South American dwarf cichlid identified in the aquarium trade by a code rather than by a formally described species name. Associated with Colombia, it attracts aquarists through its small size, territorial behaviour and parental care. This form remains rare in the aquarium hobby, making it best suited to aquarists able to maintain soft, warm and stable water. The fish offered under this name are wild collected; careful acclimation and appropriate feeding are therefore essential.

General species description

Apistogramma sp. D37 refers to an undescribed form of the genus Apistogramma, identified in the trade by the D37 code and the name Kiemenfleck. Like other dwarf cichlids in the genus, it mainly occupies the lower part of the aquarium, close to shelters and the substrate. Its appeal comes from pronounced courtship behaviour, territorial organization and parental care of the brood. It is best kept in a mature, peaceful and well-structured aquarium with consistent water quality. Its rarity level of 2 out of 3 makes it less frequently available than common Apistogramma forms.

Geographic origin and biotope

The stated origin of Apistogramma sp. D37 is Colombia. The expected biotope consists of small forest streams and quiet marginal areas of Amazonian or Orinoco drainage systems, where water is generally soft, warm and rich in organic matter. Fallen leaves, roots and branches create shelter and diffuse the light. In an aquarium, these conditions can be recreated with a fine substrate, caves and gentle filtration. Slightly acidic to neutral water, low nitrate levels and freedom from sudden changes support the acclimation of wild fish.

Precise locality and local name

The D37 code is used as a locality or lineage designation in the aquarium community, while Kiemenfleck is the German vernacular name associated with this form. The German word literally means “gill spot” and refers to a mark near the operculum. To preserve the value of this population, keep the D37 code, avoid mixing it with other geographic forms and record the origin supplied by the collector or vendor. Wild specimens should be acclimated carefully after transport.

Appearance and physical characteristics

Apistogramma sp. D37 has the typical profile of an Apistogramma: a short, laterally compressed body, extended dorsal and anal fins, and a forward-facing mouth. The name Kiemenfleck refers to a dark mark on the gill region, a feature that supports its identification in the aquarium trade. Colour may change with sex, mood, social rank and breeding condition. Adult males are generally larger and more colourful than females, while females may develop yellow tones when guarding a brood. An adult size of approximately 5 to 7 cm is suitable for aquarium care.

General feeding

In nature, Apistogramma sp. D37 searches for small invertebrates and other organisms among the substrate, leaves and submerged surfaces. Wild fish often accept live or frozen foods more readily at first, including brine shrimp, daphnia, cyclops and mosquito larvae. Once acclimated, quality fine pellets can supplement the diet. The priority is a varied diet offered in small portions to limit waste. To support condition and breeding, provide protein-rich foods while maintaining excellent water quality and regular feeding times.

Essential data

• Local name used: Kiemenfleck; Apistogramma sp. D37
• Origin of the scientific name: Apistogramma is a genus name; D37 is an aquarium-trade code for a form or population.
• Full-name etymology: Apistogramma is generally interpreted from Greek roots conveying the idea of a distinctive mark or line; D37 is a collection and trade identifier.
• Common/vernacular names: Kiemenfleck
• Family: Cichlidae
• Subfamily: Cichlinae
• Name pronunciation: ah-pis-to-GRAM-ma sp. dee thirty-seven
• Maximum adult size: approximately 5 to 7 cm
• Water temperature and pH: 25 to 29 °C; pH 5.5 to 7.0
• Stream appearance and surrounding vegetation: shaded small streams, leaf litter, roots, branches and dense streamside vegetation
• Typical tankmates: Hyphessobrycon columbianus, Hoplisoma metae, Otocinclus cocama
• Temperament and behaviour: peaceful outside breeding, territorial around a shelter or brood
• Water depth: shallow areas and quiet margins of streams
• Sexual dimorphism: males generally larger and more colourful; females smaller and often yellowish while breeding
• Bottom structure and flow: fine sand, leaves and woody debris; low to moderate current
• Captive status: wild-collected form; gradual acclimation recommended
• Rarity: rare in the aquarium hobby

In your aquarium

To succeed with Apistogramma sp. D37, provide a mature aquarium, soft and stable water, several hiding places and subdued lighting filtered by plants or floating vegetation. A non-abrasive substrate protects the fish while they forage. Avoid boisterous tankmates and other territorial cichlids. Pay particular attention to water parameters after introducing wild fish and offer frozen or live foods promptly. Good visual structure and regular water changes will encourage natural behaviour and support more reliable breeding.