In the wild, Apistogramma borelli inhabit slow-moving shallow creeks and tributaries of the Rio Paraguay and the lower Rio Parana basins, and in many places the substrate is composed of leaf litter. This dwarf cichlid is most noted for its striking colour formations, particularly in the male fish; the front end of the body is predominantly golden yellow, the flanks and posterior of the body with striking metallic powder blue undertones,and the fins gold-tipped.

A. borellii are generally peaceful, but can become rather territorial when breeding. Keep either a single pair, or in larger aquaria, one male with several females (which will form a harem). The females will seek out individual territories, hence the importance of many visual barriers within the tank.