Apistogramma macmasteri (Red Shoulder) – Vibrant Dwarf Cichlid

The Apistogramma macmasteri (Red Shoulder) is a striking South American dwarf cichlid known for its fiery red-orange shoulders, electric blue sheen, and engaging personality. Native to the Orinoco River Basin in Colombia, this species is prized by aquarists for its vivid coloration and fascinating social behavior.

Red Shoulder Apistogrammas are relatively peaceful for cichlids and thrive in planted aquariums with plenty of hiding spots such as caves, driftwood, and leaf litter. Males display brilliant coloration, while females develop a rich golden hue when breeding. Perfect for aquascaped community tanks or species setups.

Features:

• 🐟 Scientific Name: Apistogramma macmasteri
• 🌎 Origin: Colombia, Orinoco River Basin
• 🌈 Coloration: Metallic blue body with red-orange shoulders and fins
• 💧 Temperament: Semi-peaceful; territorial during spawning
• 🍽️ Diet: Omnivore – enjoys pellets, flakes, frozen, and live foods
• 🪸 Tank Level: Bottom to mid
• ⚙️ Care Level: Moderate

Recommended Tank Parameters:

• Temperature: 76–82°F
• pH: 6.0–7.2
• KH: 2–10 dKH
• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (pair)
• Environment: Planted tank with caves, driftwood, and shaded hiding spaces

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are Apistogramma macmasteri peaceful?
A: Yes — they’re one of the more peaceful dwarf cichlids, though males can be territorial during breeding.

Q: How big do they get?
A: Males grow up to 3 inches, while females stay around 2 inches.

Q: Can I keep them in a community tank?
A: Yes, with other calm fish such as tetras, rasboras, and Corydoras. Avoid other bottom-dwelling cichlids in small tanks.

Q: What do they eat?
A: A varied diet of high-quality pellets, flakes, frozen bloodworms, and live brine shrimp keeps them healthy and colorful.

Q: How can I breed them?
A: Provide caves or coconut shells for spawning. Females guard the eggs while males defend the territory.