Umbrella Dwarf Cichlid (Apistogramma borellii sp. Opal)

Discover the Stunning Umbrella Dwarf Cichlid Opal

The Umbrella Dwarf Cichlid Opal (Apistogramma borellii sp. Opal) is one of the most beautiful and peaceful dwarf cichlids available to aquarium enthusiasts. This selectively bred Opal variety enhances the natural beauty of Apistogramma borellii with brilliant metallic blue coloration, vibrant yellow highlights, and shimmering iridescent patterns that stand out in any planted aquarium. Apistogramma borellii Opal Canada

Native to South American waterways, Apistogramma borellii is widely recognized for its gentle temperament and adaptability. The Opal strain has become especially popular among aquascaping enthusiasts due to its vibrant colors, compact size, and compatibility with peaceful community fish. Whether you are creating a South American biotope aquarium or a heavily planted aquascape, the Umbrella Dwarf Cichlid Opal is an outstanding choice.

At Monster Aquarium Canada, we offer healthy, premium-quality Umbrella Dwarf Cichlid Opal specimens with professional live fish shipping available across Canada.

Umbrella Dwarf Cichlid Opal Appearance

Brilliant Opal Blue Coloration

The Opal variety is known for its intense metallic blue coloration that covers much of the body and fins. Combined with vibrant yellow facial markings and fin accents, this creates a spectacular display under aquarium lighting.

Elegant Umbrella Dorsal Fin

Mature males develop an extended dorsal fin that resembles an open umbrella when displayed, giving the species its popular common name.

Compact and Aquarium Friendly

Their small adult size makes them ideal for planted aquariums, nano tanks, and peaceful community setups where larger cichlids would not be suitable.

Apistogramma borellii Opal Care Guide

Aquarium Setup

A minimum aquarium size of 20 gallons is recommended for a pair. Aquariums with dense vegetation, driftwood, caves, leaf litter, and natural hiding places provide the ideal environment and encourage natural behaviors.

Water Parameters

Maintaining stable water conditions helps ensure optimal health and coloration.

Recommended Water Conditions

Temperature

• 72°F – 79°F (22°C – 26°C)

pH

• 6.0 – 7.5

Water Hardness

• Soft to moderately hard

Filtration

• Gentle to moderate water movement

Maintenance

• Weekly water changes recommended

Feeding Requirements

Umbrella Dwarf Cichlid Opal specimens are omnivorous and thrive on a varied diet.

Recommended Foods

Live and Frozen Foods

• Bloodworms
• Brine shrimp
• Daphnia
• Blackworms

Prepared Foods

• Premium micro pellets
• Quality flakes
• Small sinking foods

A varied diet supports vibrant coloration, breeding success, and overall health.

Why Choose Umbrella Dwarf Cichlid Opal?

Exceptional Coloration

The Opal strain is among the most colorful varieties of Apistogramma borellii, making it highly desirable for display aquariums.

Peaceful Community Fish

Unlike many cichlids, Umbrella Dwarf Cichlid Opal fish are generally peaceful and can coexist with a variety of compatible species.

Perfect for Aquascaped Tanks

Their vibrant colors and small size make them one of the best choices for planted aquariums and professional aquascapes.

Why Buy from Monster Aquarium Canada?

Premium Healthy Fish

Monster Aquarium Canada specializes in high-quality freshwater fish sourced from trusted breeders and suppliers.

Safe Canada-Wide Shipping

We professionally package live fish to ensure safe transport and healthy arrival anywhere in Canada.

Expert Aquarium Support

Our experienced team is available to provide guidance on aquarium setup, compatibility, feeding, and breeding.

Best Tank Mates for Umbrella Dwarf Cichlid Opal

Compatible Aquarium Species

These peaceful dwarf cichlids do well with other non-aggressive community fish.

Recommended Tank Mates

Schooling Fish

• Cardinal Tetras
• Neon Tetras
• Ember Tetras
• Pencilfish
• Rummy Nose Tetras

Bottom Dwellers

• Corydoras Catfish
• Otocinclus

Other Peaceful Species

• Small Rasboras
• Hatchetfish
• Peaceful Apistogramma Species

Avoid aggressive fish and large predators that may cause stress or competition.

Frequently Asked Questions

How large does Apistogramma borellii Opal grow?

Adult males typically reach 3 inches, while females generally grow to approximately 2 inches.

Is Umbrella Dwarf Cichlid Opal beginner friendly?

Yes. Apistogramma borellii is considered one of the easiest and most peaceful Apistogramma species for beginner and intermediate aquarists.

What do Umbrella Dwarf Cichlid Opal fish eat?

They thrive on premium pellets, flakes, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and other small protein-rich foods.

Can Apistogramma borellii Opal live in planted aquariums?

Absolutely. Their colors become even more vibrant in heavily planted aquariums with natural décor.

Can Umbrella Dwarf Cichlid Opal be bred in home aquariums?

Yes. With suitable caves, stable water conditions, and quality foods, they readily breed and display excellent parental care.