Macmaster's Dwarf Cichlid

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Native to eastern Colombia (Meta River and Upper Orinoco River basin). Frequents the shaded areas near the banks of savanna streams and calm rivers, taking refuge among fallen trunks and dead leaf litter in clear but dark waters (Blackwater).

Taxonomy and Morphology: Macmaster's Dwarf Cichlid (Apistogramma macmasteri). Lent its name to the homonymous "macmasteri group", characterized by dwarf cichlids that are tall, corpulent and massive compared to the classic Amazonian "torpedo". The male fins are extremely developed, especially the notched dorsal.

Social Behavior: Has a "bully" stage presence but a moderate nature compared to its wild relatives. Males perform powerful "shoulder charges" and fin fanning among themselves (displays) rarely deadly if the tank exceeds one meter, forming a hierarchical territorial harem.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Corpulent males with hypnotic colors: gray-blue crossed by intense blood-red spots on the cheeks, throat, and fiery red edges along the huge square or round caudal fin. Small females, which flaunt the classic bright lemon yellow coat when spawning.

Aquarium Setup: At least 80-100 cm (32-40 inches). Requires extreme structural complexity on the bottom: intricate thickets of bog roots, fallen branches (Manzanita), half coconuts and thick tufts of Microsorum. Fine sand as a substrate to accommodate uninterrupted chewing.

Diet and Feeding: Benthic predator of macroinvertebrates and insect larvae. Will thrive if fed on alternate days with live/frozen bloodworms and brine shrimp. Can be accustomed to premium sinking carnivorous pellets, but the monotony of dry food fades its formidable red mask.

Water Quality: Appreciates soft and acidic waters. However, it is one of the most tolerant strains in modern domestic aquarium keeping (acceptable pH up to 7.0 and GH hardness < 10). Regular water changes and low organic levels, to which it is very sensitive, are mandatory.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Splendid "centerpiece" for a South American community aquarium. Blissfully coexists with schools of small and medium Tetras (Cardinals, Rummy Nose) and Hatchetfish. However, pairing with large Corydoras or Apistogramma cacatuoides generates wars of attrition on the bottom.

Aquarium Reproduction: Nests in narrow crevices. After the female adheres 60-100 eggs on the smooth ceiling of the cave, she violently chases the male away, setting herself up as the sole and ruthless guardian. The tiny fry need infusoria or nauplii near the refuge.

Risks and Diseases: Often confused in shops (and deliberately hybridized) with Apistogramma viejita, to the point that the pure strain is rare. Suffers acutely from head pore infections (HITH) if the biological filtration in the tank is insufficient or nitrates rise.