Pandurini Apistogramma Apistogramma

The Pandurini Apistogramma (Apistogramma panduro), also known as the Panduro Dwarf Cichlid, is a striking and sought-after South American species prized for its deep blue and yellow coloration, bold black facial mask, and fascinating behavior.

Native to the blackwater tributaries of Perus Amazon Basin, these intelligent and curious dwarf cichlids thrive in well-planted aquariums with hiding spots, leaf litter, and soft, slightly acidic water. Territorial around breeding sites; best kept as a bonded pair in appropriately spacious housing, Pandurini Apistogrammas display stunning courtship colors and gentle, social interactions making them a showpiece in any dwarf cichlid setup.

Features:

• 🐠 Scientific Name: Apistogramma panduro
• Origin: Ucayali River Basin, Peru (Amazon tributaries)
• Coloration: Electric blue body with yellow fins, dark facial band, and tail spot
• 💧 Temperament: Peaceful to semi-territorial (bonded-pair territorial behavior)
• 🍽️ Diet: Omnivore enjoys pellets, frozen, and live foods
• 🪸 Tank Level: Bottom to mid-level

Recommended Tank Parameters:

• Temperature: 76–82°F
• pH: 5.5–7.0
• KH: 28 dKH
• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (pair)
• Environment: Planted aquarium with driftwood, caves, and leaf litter

Behavior & Compatibility:
Keep in pairs or trios (1 male with 2 females) in a peaceful community setting. Compatible with tetras, rasboras, pencilfish, Corydoras, and shrimp. Avoid aggressive cichlids or large tankmates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are Pandurini Apistogrammas peaceful?
A: Yes theyre peaceful with other small fish but may become territorial while breeding.

Q: How big do they get?
A: Males reach about 3 inches; females stay smaller around 2 inches.

Q: What do they eat?
A: Offer a varied diet of high-quality pellets, frozen foods (brine shrimp, bloodworms), and live foods.

Q: Can I keep them in a community tank?
A: Absolutely! They do well with calm, non-aggressive tankmates in well-structured environments.

Q: How can I bring out their best color?
A: Use soft, acidic water with leaf litter and dim lighting conditions that mimic their natural blackwater habitat.

Adult care and compatibility update: Apistogramma panduro (often sold as Pandurini) is not the same as A. nijsseni, although both may be sold as panda-pattern apistos. This dwarf cichlid can be quite territorial during courtship and spawning; provide sand, multiple caves and cover in a 20-gallon long or larger pair setup, and avoid competing bottom-territorial fish.

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Live Fish Sales Policy: Please inspect your fish before leaving the store. All live fish sales are final once they leave our store. We're happy to help with acclimation and care questions.