Uapesi Dwarf Cichlid urubaxi red (Apistogramma uaupesi) — 3-4cm

Overview

The Uaupesi Dwarf Cichlid "Urubaxi Red" (Apistogramma uaupesi) is a striking, compact blackwater dwarf cichlid that captivates aquarists with vivid red patterning, fascinating behaviour, and peaceful temperament. Native to the blackwater tributaries of the Rio Negro basin in Brazil, particularly the Urubaxi region, this species is a true gem of the Amazon basin. Reaching an adult size of just 3cm, the Urubaxi Red form is one of the smallest and most beautifully coloured members of the Apistogramma genus, making it ideal for nano and small planted aquariums. With its preference for very soft, highly acidic water and sensitive nature, this species is best suited to experienced aquarists seeking rare, exotic fish UK enthusiasts will admire. For those seeking small aquarium fish with extraordinary colour and fascinating breeding behaviour, this species is an exceptional choice for sale UK-wide.

Appearance and Urubaxi Red Colouration

The Urubaxi Red form of Apistogramma uaupesi is distinguished by vivid red patterning that intensifies across the body, fins, and face. Males are particularly stunning, with elongated dorsal and anal fins featuring red, orange, yellow, and blue hues, intricate spotting or striping on the body, and intense red colouration that becomes even more vivid during courtship and breeding. Females are smaller, rounder-bodied, and more subdued in colour, typically displaying yellowish or brownish base tones with characteristic dark markings. During breeding, females develop bright yellow or gold colouration. The compact size and vivid red patterning make this species a true showpiece for nano and planted aquariums. Healthy specimens display active behaviour, smooth scales, clear eyes, and well-defined finnage. Colour intensity is highly dependent on water quality, diet, and environmental conditions, with optimal blackwater conditions bringing out the most spectacular hues.

Natural Habitat and Blackwater Ecology

In the wild, Apistogramma uaupesi inhabits the blackwater tributaries of the Rio Negro basin in Brazil, particularly in the Urubaxi region. These environments are among the most extreme freshwater habitats on Earth, characterised by extremely soft, highly acidic water (pH often 4-6), dense leaf litter, submerged roots and branches, and tea-coloured to nearly black water stained by tannins from decaying organic matter. Water flow is minimal, and light penetration is extremely low due to tannin staining and dense forest canopy. The species is a bottom-dwelling carnivore, feeding on small invertebrates, insect larvae, and microorganisms found among the leaf litter and substrate. Breeding occurs in caves or hollows beneath roots. Understanding this specialised blackwater ecology is absolutely essential for replicating suitable conditions in captivity and ensuring the health, colour, and breeding success of this delicate species.

Aquarium Setup and Blackwater Biotope

A minimum aquarium size of 75 litres is recommended for Apistogramma uaupesi, with larger tanks preferred for community setups or harem breeding groups. The substrate should be fine sand or very smooth rounded gravel, and the aquarium must be densely furnished with driftwood, smooth rocks, caves (coconut shells, slate, or terracotta pots), and live plants tolerant of very soft, acidic conditions (such as Anubias, Cryptocoryne, Java Fern, and floating plants). Add very generous amounts of leaf litter (Indian almond, oak, or beech leaves) to replicate authentic blackwater conditions, release essential tannins, and provide foraging opportunities. Filtration should be efficient but extremely gentle; use a sponge filter or canister filter with adjustable flow set to minimal output. Water flow should be still to very slow, replicating the stagnant to slow-moving habitats of Rio Negro blackwater streams. Lighting must be subdued to very low, and the aquarium must be well-covered to prevent jumping. Allow the tank to mature for at least 4-6 weeks before adding fish to establish essential biofilm and microfauna.

Water Parameters and Extreme Acidity

Maintaining very soft, highly acidic water is absolutely critical for Apistogramma uaupesi. Temperature should be kept between 23-29°C, with 26-27°C being ideal. pH must be highly acidic, ranging from 4.0-6.0, with 5.0 preferred. This is one of the most acidic water requirements of any aquarium fish and replicates the extreme conditions of Rio Negro blackwater habitats. Water hardness must be extremely soft, with GH 0-3 and KH 0-1 recommended. Use RO (reverse osmosis) water with minimal or no remineralisation, or rainwater, to achieve these parameters. Tannins from abundant leaf litter, driftwood, alder cones, or peat filtration are essential to achieve and maintain low pH naturally. Ammonia and nitrite must always be at zero, and nitrates should be kept below 5ppm through frequent small partial water changes (15-20% weekly) and exceptional biological filtration. The species is extremely sensitive to poor water quality, high pH, and unstable parameters. Use a high-quality test kit capable of measuring very low pH values, and monitor parameters religiously. Stability and cleanliness are absolutely non-negotiable for this delicate, specialist species.

Feeding and Carnivorous Nutrition

Apistogramma uaupesi is a strict carnivore with a natural diet consisting of tiny invertebrates, insect larvae, and microorganisms. In the aquarium, offer a varied, high-protein diet of quality micro pellets designed for carnivorous dwarf cichlids, supplemented with frozen and live foods such as daphnia, baby brine shrimp, grindal worms, microworms, and tiny insect larvae (such as newly hatched mosquito larvae or vinegar eels). Due to the small size of this species, food items must be appropriately tiny. Feed small amounts 1-2 times daily, ensuring food reaches the substrate where the fish typically feed. A varied, protein-rich diet promotes vibrant red colouration, healthy growth, successful breeding, and strong immune function. Well-conditioned adults fed on high-quality live and frozen foods are far more likely to spawn and exhibit strong parental care. Supplement with vitamin-enriched foods or soak frozen items in garlic or vitamin solutions. Avoid overfeeding, as excess food can degrade water quality rapidly in the soft, acidic conditions required.

Behaviour and Peaceful Temperament

Apistogramma uaupesi is a peaceful, shy species that becomes semi-aggressive only during breeding when defending a chosen cave or territory. Males establish small territories and court females with vivid colour displays (the red patterning intensifies dramatically during courtship), fin-flaring, and elaborate movements. Breeding behaviour is complex and fascinating, with females guarding eggs and fry intensely while males defend the broader territory. The species is a bottom-dweller, spending most of its time foraging among leaf litter, exploring caves, and interacting cautiously with its environment. Due to its extremely small size and peaceful nature, the species is easily intimidated by larger or more boisterous tank mates. Males can be territorial toward one another, especially in smaller tanks, so provide visual barriers and ample space. Observing the intricate courtship rituals, vivid colour displays, and parental care is one of the great rewards of keeping this specialist species. A well-planned, peaceful community or species-only setup is essential for their wellbeing.

Compatible Tank Mates

Choosing tank mates for Apistogramma uaupesi requires extreme care due to the species' tiny size, shy nature, and specialist water parameter requirements. Ideal companions include peaceful pencilfish (such as Nannostomus species), very small, calm tetras (e.g., Ember Tetras, Green Neon Tetras), Otocinclus catfish, and possibly small peaceful bottom dwellers or other peaceful dwarf cichlids in larger, well-structured tanks only. Avoid large or boisterous fish, aggressive cichlids, fin-nippers, very active bottom dwellers that compete for territory, and any fish that cannot tolerate extremely soft, acidic water (pH 4-6). Tank mates must be carefully chosen to thrive in identical blackwater conditions. A dedicated Rio Negro blackwater biotope community featuring peaceful, similarly sized species is the ideal setting. Ensure ample space, multiple territories, and abundant hiding places to minimise stress and territorial conflict. A species-only or very carefully planned blackwater community is strongly recommended.

Breeding and Cave Spawning

Apistogramma uaupesi is a cave-spawning species with rewarding breeding behaviour for dedicated aquarists. Provide a bonded pair or a single male with 2-3 females, along with multiple caves and abundant leaf litter for spawning sites. Breeding is best achieved in soft, highly acidic water (pH 4-6) with low disturbance, excellent water quality, and plentiful cover. Females lay adhesive eggs on the roof or walls of a chosen cave, and the female guards the eggs and fry closely while the male defends the wider territory. Spawning usually occurs in a cave or sheltered crevice. Eggs hatch in 2-3 days, and fry become free-swimming after a further 5-7 days. Fry are extremely tiny and require infusoria, liquid fry food, or finely powdered spirulina initially, graduating to newly hatched brine shrimp and microworms as they grow. Soft, acidic water with plentiful cover significantly improves breeding success. For best fry survival, consider removing tank mates or raising fry in a separate rearing tank with identical water parameters. Breeding this specialist species is a significant achievement and provides fascinating insight into the complex behaviours of Rio Negro dwarf cichlids.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

Tropical Fish Co is proud to offer healthy, carefully acclimated Apistogramma uaupesi "Urubaxi Red" sourced from reputable specialist breeders and quarantined to ensure peak condition upon arrival. Every fish is inspected for health, colour, and vitality before dispatch, and we provide expert advice and ongoing support to help you create the ideal blackwater biotope environment. With fast, reliable delivery across the UK and a commitment to customer satisfaction, Tropical Fish Co is your trusted partner for rare apistogramma and exotic fish UK-wide. Whether you're setting up a dedicated Rio Negro blackwater biotope, planning an Apistogramma breeding project, or seeking the most stunning small aquarium fish available, our team is here to help you succeed. Shop with confidence and discover the extraordinary beauty of the Uaupesi Dwarf Cichlid "Urubaxi Red" from Tropical Fish Co.