
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Apistogramma macmasteri
A dwarf cichlid from the upper Meta drainage in Colombia. Most fish show a red-edged caudal fin, and ornamental 'red' and 'gold' strains are traded. The IUCN lists it as Near Threatened on account of its restricted range.
Apistogramma macmasteri occurs in the upper Meta drainage of the Orinoco basin in Colombia, in the Guaytiquia and Metica rivers. Males reach about 5.5cm standard length and females about 4-5cm, males being larger, more colourful and longer-finned. Most fish show a red-edged caudal fin, and ornamental strains known as 'red' (A121) and 'gold' are traded; the DATZ code for the species is A120, with a similar population designated A122. Seriously Fish gives 24-28C, pH 5.5-7.0 and 0-5 dGH, with a pair kept from 45x30cm, about 41 litres. It feeds mainly on benthic invertebrates, so live and frozen Artemia, Daphnia and bloodworm form the basis of the diet. It is a substrate spawner laying in crevices or cavities, and because the female turns hyper-aggressive after spawning the male often has to be removed from smaller tanks. Its restricted range is why the IUCN lists it as Near Threatened.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Macmaster's Dwarf Cichlid lives 3-5 years.
The Macmaster's Dwarf Cichlid grows to Males about 5.5cm, females about 4-5cm standard length.
The ideal temperature for the Macmaster's Dwarf Cichlid is 24〜28℃.
Origin
South America: Colombia, upper Meta River drainage (Guaytiquia and Metica rivers), Orinoco basin
Sources: Seriously Fish: Apistogramma macmasteri / FishBase: Apistogramma macmasteri
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Apistogramma macmasteri Kullander, 1979
Authority databases: FishBase
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / IUCN Red List
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Lifespan
3-5 years
Size
Males about 5.5cm, females about 4-5cm standard length
Temperature
24〜28℃
Live and frozen Artemia, Daphnia and bloodworm, plus prepared foods
A pair can be kept from 45x30cm, about 41 litres. Use driftwood, leaf litter and pipes for caves and spawning sites, and break up lines of sight.
24-28C, pH 5.5-7.0 and 0-5 dGH. Keep the water soft and low in hardness.
Captive-raised fish suit community tanks. Wild specimens are best alone or with small dither fishes, and should not be mixed with other Apistogramma.
Largely carnivorous on benthic invertebrates. Offer live and frozen Artemia, Daphnia and chironomid larvae regularly, with dried foods alongside.
A substrate spawner laying in crevices or cavities. The female becomes hyper-aggressive after spawning, so in smaller tanks the male may have to be removed.
Ornamental strains such as 'red' (A121) are common, and many fish sold as A. viejita are reported to be this species. Check labelling against the fish when buying.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Macmaster's Dwarf Cichlid is 24〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Macmaster's Dwarf Cichlid is 3-5 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Macmaster's Dwarf Cichlid typically reaches Males about 5.5cm, females about 4-5cm standard length as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Macmaster's Dwarf Cichlid feeds on: Live and frozen Artemia, Daphnia and bloodworm, plus prepared foods. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Macmaster's Dwarf Cichlid varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 17, 2026