Apistogramma macmasteri Red Shoulder Dwarf Cichlid
Apistogramma macmasteri Red Shoulder is a colorful South American dwarf cichlid known for its bold personality, vivid red shoulder markings, and beautiful display behavior. This eye-catching Apistogramma makes an excellent centerpiece fish for planted aquariums, peaceful community tanks, and natural aquascapes.
Red Shoulder Apistogrammas thrive in aquariums with caves, driftwood, leaf litter, live plants, and stable water conditions. Males can show impressive coloration, especially when mature or during breeding behavior, making this dwarf cichlid a standout addition for hobbyists who enjoy fish with personality.
Key Features
- Striking Red Shoulder Color: Known for vibrant red shoulder markings and bold body tones.
- Great Centerpiece Fish: Adds color, movement, and personality to smaller planted aquariums.
- Perfect for Aquascapes: Looks excellent with live plants, driftwood, caves, and leaf litter.
- Interesting Behavior: Displays natural dwarf cichlid behavior, territory guarding, and breeding activity.
- Community Tank Friendly: Works well with peaceful fish when housed in a properly sized aquarium.
- Popular South American Cichlid: A favorite choice for Apistogramma and dwarf cichlid enthusiasts.
Quick Facts
- Scientific Name: Apistogramma macmasteri
- Common Name: Red Shoulder Apistogramma
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Semi-peaceful; territorial when breeding
- Adult Size: Up to 3 inches
- Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
- Water Temperature: 75–82°F
- pH Range: 6.0–7.5
- Water Hardness: Soft to moderate
- Diet: Omnivore
- Origin: South America
Tank Setup
Red Shoulder Apistogrammas do best in a well-established aquarium with plenty of structure. Provide caves, coconut huts, driftwood, rocks, and dense plant cover so they can create territories and feel secure.
A planted aquarium with a soft natural substrate, leaf litter, gentle filtration, and stable water parameters will help this fish show its best color and behavior. Avoid strong current and sudden water parameter changes.
Best Tank Mates
- Small peaceful tetras
- Rasboras
- Pencilfish
- Small Corydoras species
- Otocinclus Catfish
- Peaceful community fish
- Other calm South American species
Avoid large aggressive fish, fin nippers, or overly boisterous tank mates that may stress them. During breeding, Red Shoulder Apistogrammas may defend a territory more strongly.
Diet & Feeding
Apistogramma macmasteri is an omnivore and should be offered a varied diet. Feed high-quality micro pellets, small cichlid pellets, flakes, frozen brine shrimp, frozen bloodworms, daphnia, and other small prepared or frozen foods.
A varied diet helps support color, condition, and breeding behavior. Feed small portions once or twice daily, only as much as they can consume in a short time.
Care Tips
- Keep water clean, stable, and well-maintained.
- Provide caves and hiding places for territories.
- Use live plants, driftwood, and leaf litter for a natural environment.
- Keep with peaceful tank mates of similar size.
- Feed a varied diet for best color and health.
- Acclimate slowly before adding to the aquarium.
Breeding Behavior
Red Shoulder Apistogrammas may breed in aquariums with stable water, hiding spaces, and proper conditioning. Females often choose caves or sheltered areas for spawning and may guard eggs and fry.
During breeding, both males and females can become more territorial, so provide enough space and visual barriers in the aquarium.
Why Choose Red Shoulder Apistogramma?
The Red Shoulder Apistogramma is a great choice for aquarists who want a colorful dwarf cichlid with personality. Its size, coloration, and behavior make it an excellent centerpiece fish for planted tanks and peaceful community aquariums.
This species is especially appealing to hobbyists who enjoy South American fish, natural aquascapes, and interactive aquarium behavior.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big do Red Shoulder Apistogrammas get?
They typically reach up to about 3 inches as adults, with males usually being larger and more colorful than females.
Are Red Shoulder Apistogrammas aggressive?
They are generally semi-peaceful but can become territorial, especially during breeding. Provide caves, plants, and enough space to reduce conflict.
Can Red Shoulder Apistogrammas live in planted tanks?
Yes. They thrive in planted aquariums with hiding places, driftwood, caves, and stable water conditions.
Are Red Shoulder Apistogrammas beginner-friendly?
They are best for intermediate hobbyists or beginners who are comfortable maintaining stable water parameters and peaceful tank mates.
What do Red Shoulder Apistogrammas eat?
They eat small pellets, flakes, frozen brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia, and other small prepared or frozen foods.
Can I keep a pair of Red Shoulder Apistogrammas?
Yes, they can be kept as a pair in a properly sized tank with caves and territories. Some setups may also work with one male and multiple females if the aquarium is large enough.
Available at Tropical Treasures Wyo
Shop Apistogramma macmasteri Red Shoulder Dwarf Cichlids online or in-store at Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming. These colorful South American dwarf cichlids are a great choice for planted aquariums, peaceful community tanks, aquascapes, and Apistogramma enthusiasts.
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