Re: Apisto Groupings

[Mike & Diane Wise <apistowise@bewellnet.com>]

Edison,

The reason we split the genus into groups and complexes is because we now
recognize nearly 200 different forms of Apistogramma. Certainly, many will be
found to be geographic populations of other forms (species), but we won't be sure
which are which without a lot of lab and field study. With so many forms out
there, breaking the genus down into various more closely related groups/complexes
greatly simplifies identifying species/forms. Now if only the books put showed
their fish in a similar fashion, but that's another story.

Let me expand on David Soares' abbreviated description with a little history.  In
1965 Hermann Meinken originally grouped the dozen or so then known apisto species
by using eye diameter/snout length ratio and shape of the dorsal and caudal fins.
This was a totally artificial system, but since there were so few species no one
tried to improve on it for 15 years. In 1980 Kullander published his first
monograph on Brazilian and Peruvian species. In it he suggested a better means of
grouping the species in the genus, then about 40 in number. He had 7
species-groups. Koslowski was the first to subdivide groups into
species-complexes in his 1985 book. Since then the number of
species-groups/complexes has expanded along with the number of new species/forms.
Probably the most recent published revision is mine that can be read on the
Apistogramma Study Groups web page: http://user.mc.net~warewolf/apisto.html. It
lists 11 species-groups with 14 species-complexes. This article is several years
old now and more new species have increased the number of species-groups. I now
recognize 15 species-groups and 26 species-complexes.

The regani-group is the most species-rich in the genus. I recognize 10
species-complexes containing 83 different species/forms. Regani-group species can
be recognized by:
1. relatively deep (high backed), laterally compressed body;
2. do NOT show a lateral spot;
3. low to moderate, even to very slightly serrated, dorsal fin (males);
4. round caudal fin (males), sometimes truncate (squared off) with small
extensions of the outer rays;
5. vertical flank bars often visible, especially when stressed;
6. casually monogamous to casually polygamous.

Mike Wise

"Edison C. Yap" wrote:

> Is there anyone on the list knows which Apistos belong to the Regani Group?
>  Also what are the different groups of Apistos and what Apistos belong to
> those Group?  Why are Apistos need to be grouped?
>
> Thanks,
>
> Edison C. Yap
> Philippines
>
> -------------------------------------------------------------------------
> This is the apistogramma mailing list, apisto@listbox.com.
> For instructions on how to subscribe or unsubscribe or get help,
> email apisto-request@listbox.com.
> Search http://altavista.digital.com for "Apistogramma Mailing List Archives"!



-------------------------------------------------------------------------
This is the apistogramma mailing list, apisto@listbox.com.
For instructions on how to subscribe or unsubscribe or get help,
email apisto-request@listbox.com.
Search http://altavista.digital.com for "Apistogramma Mailing List Archives"!