Macmasteri 3cm

Apistogramma Macmasteri Wild 3cm

The Apistogramma Macmasteri is one of the world's most popular Apistogramma because of its assortment of colours and larger size when compared to other Apistogramma species. Looking like it was almost painted the Macmasters has a large array of colours including orange, blue, red, white, yellow, purple and black. These colours form different patterns and hues on the fish which is contrasted starkly by the bold black outlines the Macmasters has. Being a wild Macmasters as well, this really captures the true essence and colours of the fish without any human intervention via selective breeding.  The wild Apistogramma in general display very different behaviour being more calculative and are of their environment whereas the captive counterparts are always out and about. They would be a great fish to include in a breeding colony of Apistogramma Macmasteri to add greater genetic variation or to simply display the natural essence of this fish in a species only or biotope aquarium. Trying to find the males and females in this species is possible where adult males have larger body size and more pointed fins with trails at times where’s the females have a smaller body with curved fins. This form of Apistogramma is not an extremely shy species and will readily present its personality to its owners and not shy from showing itself off but it can take a fair while for wild individuals to display themselves like this in the home aquarium. This dwarf cichlid would do best with other small community fish such as gouramis, tetras and Corydoras. naturally, the wild Macmasteri habitat in South America.

Tank Recommendations for your Wild Macmasteri

The Apistogramma Macmasteri only needs a tank of around 20 gallons (75 litres) as they are a small growing fish. Because of their wild nature, it is best to slowly transition them to a typical captive environment where there tends to be bright lighting, crystal clear water and large moving objects, as these are all things that the wild Apistogramma have not experienced. Starting off with dim lighting and tannin-rich water and over the course of a few weeks, a change can be made. To make the wild fish more comfortable with their environment it is strongly recommended to add ‘dither’ fish. These are species that will actively spend time out in the open and this indicates that there is no threat.

Suitable Tank Buddies

To really make the wild Apistogramma Macmasters settle in, it is best if they are not instantly put in a bustling community aquarium. Beginning with a few nano schooling fish and gradually adding more inhabitants would be best. They may also take time to get accustomed to aquarium foods and could get outcompeted at 3cm which is the size of these individuals. It may be better to grow them out in a separate aquarium before adding them with other fish as well.

Usually, Compatible

Tetras, gourami, Corydoras, angelfish, cherry barbs and common community fish species.

Sometime Compatible

Other Apistogramma species and dwarf cichlids such as rams and large peaceful cichlids such as uaru or Severums might outcompete for food.

Rarely Compatible

Shrimp and large aggressive species such as African cichlids, Oscars and Jaguar cichlids.

Feeding your Wild Apistogramma Macmasteri

These Apistogramma being wild may not take too prepared aquarium foods like pellets or flakes instantly. In the wild, they were most likely consuming microorganisms and small live foods. Great foods to begin them off with are live brine shrimp, daphnia, live black worms. They can then be transitioned to frozen foods and then a mix of frozen and pellets or flake. Overall just like feeding any fish, the wild Mamasteri should be given a varied diet. Naturally, they are carnivores and they will readily prefer meaty foods. Feeding for these wild fish should is fine to occur once a day but feeding small portions throughout the course of the day is also ideal.

Additional Information
Overall the Wild Apistogramma Macmasteri is a fun and slightly challenging fish to keep which is why it is highly sought after by experienced aquarists. Instead of readily just eating and swimming around, these fish are more hands-on and help to increase the skill of being an expert aquarist. It may also be recommended to quarantine these fish and treat them with deworming and antibacterial/fungal medications to ensure their health is optimal.