While we make every effort to ensure that our online stock levels are accurate and up to date, some products—particularly those that are perishable or subject to daily changes—may vary in availability. This includes livestock, fish, corals, and both fresh and frozen foods. Due to the nature of these items and their dependence on factors such as shipment schedules, health status, and in-store demand, availability can change rapidly and may not always be reflected in real time on our website.
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A stunning addition to any South American biotope or community aquarium, Apistogramma viejita and Apistogramma macmasteri are closely related dwarf cichlids often interbred in the aquarium trade. These vibrant, intelligent fish are loved for their rich colours, fascinating behaviours, and manageable size—making them an excellent centrepiece for planted tanks.
Species: Apistogramma viejita / Apistogramma macmasteri (often hybridised in captivity)
Common Names: Viejita Dwarf Cichlid, Macmaster's Dwarf Cichlid
Origin: Colombia – Orinoco River Basin
Lighting Requirements: Low to Moderate
Diet: Carnivorous – enjoy high-quality micro pellets, frozen foods (brine shrimp, daphnia), and live blackworms
Maximum Size: 6–8 cm
Temperament: Semi-peaceful, territorial during breeding
Care Level: Intermediate
Aquarium Setup:
A planted aquarium of at least 60 litres is ideal, with soft, slightly acidic water and plenty of driftwood, caves, and leaf litter. These fish thrive in naturalistic setups with subdued lighting and calm tank mates. Sand substrate is recommended to allow natural sifting behaviour.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 24–28 °C
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pH: 6.0–7.2
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Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (1–10 dGH)
Growth and Maintenance:
These cichlids are hardy when kept in stable, clean water conditions. Weekly water changes are essential. Males develop elongated dorsal and caudal fins, while females remain smaller and rounder. Breeding is possible in home aquaria and often occurs in a cave or hollow.
Care Tips:
✔ Provide multiple hiding spots to minimise aggression
✔ Feed a varied, protein-rich diet for best colouration
✔ Keep in pairs or harems (1 male to 2–3 females) for successful breeding
✔ Avoid aggressive or boisterous tank mates
Compatibility:
Great tank mates include small tetras, pencilfish, otocinclus, and peaceful bottom dwellers. Avoid fin-nippers, large cichlids, or fast, aggressive species.
Availability:
Occasionally available in the aquarium trade, often as colour variants or crossbreeds between A. viejita and A. macmasteri. Contact us for availability.
Disclaimer:
Due to natural variation and hybridisation in captive strains, the fish you receive may differ slightly in appearance from the image provided.