Apistogramma Macmasteri
Macmaster’s Dwarf Cichlid (Apistogramma macmasteri)
The Macmasteri Cichlid is a stunningly colored and robust dwarf cichlid that originates from the Orinoco River basin. It is highly regarded for its stocky build and the vivid red markings that often appear on the face and fins of dominant males. Known for being slightly larger and bolder than some of its cousins, the Apistogramma macmasteri is a centerpiece fish that combines high-energy behavior with a spectacular, "high-fin" aesthetic.
Key Information
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Common Name: Macmasteri Cichlid, Orinoco Dwarf Cichlid
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Scientific Name: Apistogramma macmasteri
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Origin: Colombia (Orinoco River Basin)
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Max Size: Males up to 8–9 cm | Females up to 6 cm
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Lifespan: 3–5 years
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Temperament: Semi-peaceful (Territorial bottom-dweller)
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Diet: Carnivore/Omnivore – Loves frozen or live foods like artemia, daphnia, and high-protein pellets.
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Care Level: Moderate
Water Parameters
| Parameter | Value |
| Temperature: | 23–30°C |
| pH: | 5.5–7.0 (Prefers acidic conditions) |
| Hardness: | 1–10 dGH (Very soft water) |
| Minimum Tank Size: | 75L+ |
Behaviour & Tank Compatibility
Macmasteri are intelligent fish with complex social hierarchies. While they are peaceful toward upper-dwelling community fish, they can be quite assertive with other bottom-dwellers when defending their territory. They are best kept in a harem (one male with several females). Ideal tank mates include Cardinal Tetras, Rummy Nose Tetras, and smaller species of Loricariids (Plecos).
Ideal Tank Setup
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Leaf Litter & Tannins: Adding Catappa leaves mimics their natural blackwater environment and helps lower the pH.
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Complex Hardscape: Use a mix of driftwood and smooth stones to create visual barriers and territorial boundaries.
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Caves & Spawning Sites: Multiple small caves or overturned ceramic pots are essential for females to feel secure.
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Soft Sandy Substrate: To support their natural digging and foraging habits.
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Dim Lighting: Use floating plants to create a dappled light effect, which makes the red colors on the fish "pop" even more.
Why Choose the Macmasteri Cichlid?
The Apistogramma macmasteri is a perfect choice for the aquarist looking for a dwarf cichlid with a slightly larger presence and more intense coloration. Their striking red accents and active personalities make them a fascinating species to observe. If you can provide soft, stable water conditions, the Macmasteri will reward you with some of the most impressive colors in the entire Apistogramma genus.
Description
Macmaster’s Dwarf Cichlid (Apistogramma macmasteri)
The Macmasteri Cichlid is a stunningly colored and robust dwarf cichlid that originates from the Orinoco River basin. It is highly regarded for its stocky build and the vivid red markings that often appear on the face and fins of dominant males. Known for being slightly larger and bolder than some of its cousins, the Apistogramma macmasteri is a centerpiece fish that combines high-energy behavior with a spectacular, "high-fin" aesthetic.
Key Information
-
Common Name: Macmasteri Cichlid, Orinoco Dwarf Cichlid
-
Scientific Name: Apistogramma macmasteri
-
Origin: Colombia (Orinoco River Basin)
-
Max Size: Males up to 8–9 cm | Females up to 6 cm
-
Lifespan: 3–5 years
-
Temperament: Semi-peaceful (Territorial bottom-dweller)
-
Diet: Carnivore/Omnivore – Loves frozen or live foods like artemia, daphnia, and high-protein pellets.
-
Care Level: Moderate
Water Parameters
| Parameter | Value |
| Temperature: | 23–30°C |
| pH: | 5.5–7.0 (Prefers acidic conditions) |
| Hardness: | 1–10 dGH (Very soft water) |
| Minimum Tank Size: | 75L+ |
Behaviour & Tank Compatibility
Macmasteri are intelligent fish with complex social hierarchies. While they are peaceful toward upper-dwelling community fish, they can be quite assertive with other bottom-dwellers when defending their territory. They are best kept in a harem (one male with several females). Ideal tank mates include Cardinal Tetras, Rummy Nose Tetras, and smaller species of Loricariids (Plecos).
Ideal Tank Setup
-
Leaf Litter & Tannins: Adding Catappa leaves mimics their natural blackwater environment and helps lower the pH.
-
Complex Hardscape: Use a mix of driftwood and smooth stones to create visual barriers and territorial boundaries.
-
Caves & Spawning Sites: Multiple small caves or overturned ceramic pots are essential for females to feel secure.
-
Soft Sandy Substrate: To support their natural digging and foraging habits.
-
Dim Lighting: Use floating plants to create a dappled light effect, which makes the red colors on the fish "pop" even more.
Why Choose the Macmasteri Cichlid?
The Apistogramma macmasteri is a perfect choice for the aquarist looking for a dwarf cichlid with a slightly larger presence and more intense coloration. Their striking red accents and active personalities make them a fascinating species to observe. If you can provide soft, stable water conditions, the Macmasteri will reward you with some of the most impressive colors in the entire Apistogramma genus.
