"Apistogramma caetei Xingu"?

[HaakonH]

My Czech supplier lists a species as Apistogramma caetei Xingu. It's not among the cheapest on the list. As far as I know, A.caetei is not found in the Xingu, and regular caetei are listed at a much lower price. Does anyone know what might hide behind the name?

Haakon

 

[Mike Wise]

Presently, all known species of the caetei-complex originate in the Tocantins/Araguaia system, Ilha de Marajó, and coastal streams to the east (there is a report of an odd caetei/taeniata-like species from around Macapá on the northern side of the Amazon, but it is unconfirmed). None that I know about come from the Xingu. My guess is that the fish is a form of A. sp. Xingu, which is similar in appearance to A. caetei.

 

[HaakonH]

Thanks Mike! I was expecting that. I think I'll order some and see what arrives.

Haakon

 

[HaakonH]

I received some "Apistogramma caetei Xingu" the other day. I'm really not sure what to think...Hopefully someone can help me identify them? That green stuff on the first pic is algae on the glass.

Haakon

 

[Mike Wise]

It looks more like a resticulosa-complex species than a caetei-complex species. My guess is that it is a form of A. taeniata. Nice fish!

 

[HaakonH]

Thanks, Mike! They are enjoying life in a huge showtank where I work. Could this perhaps be A9, Apistogramma cf. taeniata "Xingu" then?

Haakon

 

[Mike Wise]

Yes, probably the same population.