Species profile
Apistogramma Macmasteri
Apistogramma macmasteri
Peaceful
Moderate care
80 L minimum aquarium
4–8 cm adult size
Bottom–mid
Can be kept singly
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Captive domestic strains may be more colourful than wild-type fish.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
23–28 °C
pH
5.5–7
GH
1–8 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low–moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Can be kept singly
Tank zone
Bottom–mid
Territory level
Moderate
Predation risk
Shrimp fry
Bioload factor
1.1
Pair/harem dynamics vary; provide multiple caves and broken sightlines.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
Yes
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Low
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Carnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
80 L
Minimum footprint
60 × 30 cm
Accepted scientific name
Apistogramma macmasteri
Native range
Colombia, upper Orinoco basin including the Meta drainage.
Natural habitat
Soft-water forest streams and floodplain habitats. Use sand, leaf litter, wood, dense cover and caves.
Diet & feeding
Small live/frozen invertebrates plus high-quality small sinking foods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males are larger and more colourful with extended fins; mature females are smaller and yellow strongly when breeding.
Breeding
Cave-spawning dwarf cichlid; female guards eggs/fry and becomes strongly territorial around the brood.