Apistogramma Macmasteri “Red”
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Apistogramma Macmasteri “Red” Care Guide
(Macmaster’s Dwarf Cichlid – Red Variant)
The Apistogramma Macmasteri “Red”, also known as the Macmaster’s Dwarf Cichlid Red Variant, is a strikingly colorful freshwater fish native to the Orinoco River Basin in Colombia. Its vibrant red hues, contrasted with subtle blues and yellows, make it a standout in aquariums. This species is relatively hardy for an Apistogramma and well-suited for intermediate aquarists.
Tank Requirements
- Tank Size:
- A minimum of 20 gallons for a pair. Larger tanks (30+ gallons) are recommended if housing multiple pairs or in a community setup.
- Tank Setup:
- Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel is ideal to mimic their natural habitat.
- Decor: Include driftwood, rocks, and leaf litter to provide hiding spots and replicate their native environment.
- Plants: Use live plants like Amazon swords, Anubias, and floating plants for shade.
- Hiding Spots: Provide caves or pots for shelter and potential spawning sites.
- Lighting:
- Moderate to dim lighting to reduce stress and enhance natural behavior.
- Water Flow:
- Minimal to moderate water flow, as they prefer calm waters.
Water Parameters
- Temperature: 74–82°F (23–28°C)
- pH: 5.5–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Hardness: 1–10 dGH (soft to moderately soft water)
- Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm; nitrates should be kept under 20 ppm.
- Water Changes: Perform weekly water changes of 20–30% to maintain pristine conditions.
Diet
Apistogramma Macmasteri “Red” is an omnivore and thrives on a varied diet:
- Staple Foods:
- High-quality micro-pellets or granules formulated for dwarf cichlids.
- Live/Frozen Foods:
- Bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and blackworms provide essential protein.
- Vegetable-Based Foods:
- Occasionally offer blanched spinach or spirulina-based foods.
- Feeding Schedule:
- Feed 1–2 times daily in small amounts that can be consumed within a few minutes.
Behavior and Compatibility
- Temperament:
- Semi-aggressive but generally peaceful, especially when provided with sufficient space and hiding spots.
- Social Structure:
- Males can be territorial, especially during breeding. Best kept as a bonded pair or a single male with multiple females in larger tanks.
- Tankmates:
- Suitable companions include peaceful, non-aggressive species like tetras, rasboras, Corydoras, and other small, calm fish. Avoid fin-nippers or overly boisterous species.
Breeding
Breeding Apistogramma Macmasteri “Red” is relatively straightforward with the right conditions:
- Breeding Tank:
- Use a separate tank with soft, acidic water (pH 5.5–6.5) and a temperature of 78–82°F (26–28°C). Include caves or pots for egg-laying.
- Conditioning:
- Feed adults a high-protein diet of live or frozen foods to stimulate spawning.
- Spawning Behavior:
- Females will lay eggs in a hidden area, such as a cave or under leaf litter. Males fertilize the eggs, and females guard the clutch while males patrol the territory.
- Egg and Fry Care:
- Eggs hatch within 2–4 days, and fry become free-swimming after 5–7 days.
- Feed fry infusoria or liquid fry food initially, transitioning to baby brine shrimp as they grow.
Common Challenges
- Territorial Behavior:
- Males can become aggressive if space is limited or if tankmates encroach on their territory. Provide ample hiding spots and monitor for aggression.
- Water Sensitivity:
- They are sensitive to poor water quality, so consistent maintenance is crucial.
- Disease Susceptibility:
- Like many dwarf cichlids, they are prone to diseases such as ich if stressed.
Interesting Facts
- Apistogramma Macmasteri is named after aquarist Herbert R. Axelrod, who described it in honor of aquarium fish exporter C. H. Macmaster.
- The “Red” variant is a selectively bred strain, prized for its vibrant coloration.
- These cichlids are known for their intricate mating dances and strong parental care.
Care Summary
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Tank Size | 20 gallons for a pair, 30+ gallons for groups |
| Water Parameters | pH 5.5–7.0, 74–82°F, soft water |
| Diet | Omnivorous: pellets, live/frozen foods |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive; territorial during breeding |
| Lifespan | 5–7 years |
The Apistogramma macmasteri “Red” is a captivating and manageable dwarf cichlid, perfect for aquarists seeking a vibrant and behaviorally engaging species. With proper care and a thoughtfully designed tank, these fish can thrive and become a highlight of any aquarium.