Apistogramma barlowi

Apistogramma barlowi is a species of dwarf cichlid in the Geophaginae subfamily, found in forest streams northwest of Pebas town in northern Peru.^[1] It was first discovered in Peru in 2000 and scientifically described in 2008.^[1] Apistogramma barlowi is a freshwater fish that grows to a length of 6.5 cm (2.6 in).^[2] There are two forms which occur in separate parts of its range: a red form that is darker and has red marks on the head, and a white form that is paler.^[2] The specific name is in honor of the ichthyologist George W. Barlow.^[3]

The fish has previously been known under the trade name Apistogramma sp. "mouthbrooder", "Maulbrüter" or "Brustband".

Spawning

This is a larvophilous mouthbrooder, which is unusual in the genus Apistogramma.^[4] Like other apistos, they spawn in caves. After the fry have hatched, the female keeps them in her mouth until they are free-swimming.

Habitat

Apistogramma barlowi prefers relatively cool and clear fast-flowing forest streams with a acidic to neutral pH.^[1] In one case, the habitat was a 1 m (3.3 ft) wide stream with a sandy bottom (no aquatic plants or large stones), a pH of 4.8 and a temperature of 29 °C (84 °F) (this is the upper limit of the usual temperature range of waters where the species occurs).^[2]

References