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Apistogramma uaupesi is a small Amazonian dwarf cichlid valued for its compact size, territorial behavior and rich social interactions. Native to the Rio Negro basin in Brazil, it inhabits soft, acidic waters often tinted by tannins. Successful care requires stable water, gentle filtration and a layout offering plenty of cover. This species remains fairly uncommon in the aquarium trade, and the specimens offered by Ton.Fish are wild-collected. It is also available as an exclusive species at Ton.Fish in Canada, making it an appealing choice for aquarists looking for a less common apistogramma.

General description, origin and biotope

Apistogramma uaupesi is a dwarf cichlid from the genus Apistogramma, usually kept as a pair or in a small harem in a well-structured aquarium. The species comes from the Rio Negro basin in Brazil, particularly the area of the Rio Demini, a tributary with soft, acidic water. Its biotope consists of small forest streams, calm areas and flooded margins, with water often stained amber by leaves and decomposing wood. The bottom is generally made up of fine sand, plant debris and leaf litter, with low to moderate flow. The occupied depth is often shallow, around 20 to 100 cm. Roots, submerged branches and dense bank vegetation provide shade and shelter. Its short, elongated body, developed fins and contrasting markings are distinctive. The species accepts frozen and live foods, as well as quality small dry foods, but a varied diet rich in small prey helps maintain good condition and coloration.

Appearance, diet and behavior

The body of Apistogramma uaupesi has a brownish-yellow to grayish base color, crossed by dark markings that become stronger depending on mood, sex and social context. The fins may display yellow, red or bluish tones, especially in males in breeding condition. As with several apistogrammas, the female often becomes more yellow while defending a brood. This is a bottom- and mid-water species that explores the substrate, leaves and shelters. Its temperament is generally peaceful outside the breeding period, although the male may defend a territory and the female may vigorously protect a cavity. Several visual barriers should therefore be provided with leaves, roots and small caves. Its natural diet consists mainly of tiny invertebrates and organisms associated with the substrate. In the aquarium, regularly offer live or frozen baby brine shrimp, bloodworms and daphnia, supplemented with fine pellets. Acidic water and a temperature of 24 to 29 °C support its long-term care.

Essential data

• Native river: Rio Demini
• Local name used: Uaupés apisto; Uaupés apistogramma
• Origin of the scientific name: Apistogramma is the genus name; uaupesi refers to the Rio Uaupés
• Etymology of the full name: Apistogramma comes from Greek and refers to a line or distinctive mark; uaupesi means from the Uaupés, referring to the region of origin
• Common/vernacular names: Uaupés apistogramma; Uaupés dwarf cichlid
• Family: Cichlidae
• Subfamily: Cichlinae
• Name pronunciation: a-pis-to-GRAM-ma oo-ah-oo-PÉ-si
• Discovery: Sven O. Kullander, 1980
• Maximum adult size: approximately 5 cm
• Water temperature and pH: 24 to 29 °C; pH 4.5 to 6.5
• Stream appearance and surrounding vegetation: amber forest waters, calm areas, leaf litter, roots and dense bank vegetation
• Typical tankmates: Paracheirodon axelrodi, Carnegiella strigata, Corydoras agassizi, Otocinclus affinis, Nannostomus eques
• Temperament and behavior: peaceful, territorial during breeding, female guards the brood
• Water depth: approximately 20 to 100 cm
• Sexual dimorphism: male usually larger and more colorful; female smaller and often yellow during breeding
• Bottom structure and flow: fine sand, leaves and submerged wood; low to moderate flow

In your aquarium

Success with Apistogramma uaupesi depends on clean, soft and acidic water without sudden changes. Provide a mature aquarium, moderate circulation, subdued lighting and several separated shelters. Catappa leaves or other suitable leaves can help recreate the atmosphere of a flooded forest. Feed small varied portions and monitor tankmate interactions carefully during breeding. Since this is a wild-collected species, gradual acclimation and quarantine are especially advisable. Because its availability is less consistent, it deserves careful and stable aquarium care.