Apistogramma macmasteri is a medium-sized, robust dwarf cichlid native to the Meta and Guaviare River systems in Colombia, part of the Orinoco drainage. It is one of the most popular species in the Apistogramma genus, valued for its bold, contrasting colouration and its somewhat greater adaptability to captive water conditions compared to many of its softer-water relatives.
Males display a vivid colour palette of red, yellow, blue, and black — with specific colouration varying between individuals and captive-bred lines. The dorsal and caudal fins are often strikingly patterned with red edging. Wild-caught specimens tend to be more variably coloured, while captive-bred fish are often selectively bred for enhanced colour. Females are, as with all Apistogramma, considerably smaller and primarily yellow, becoming intensely golden when guarding fry.
A. macmasteri is found in warm, soft to moderately soft water in its natural habitat, often associated with leaf-littered sandy substrates and submerged roots. In the aquarium it is more forgiving of moderately harder water than some other Apistogramma species, though soft, slightly acidic water is still preferred and recommended. Its bold behaviour and impressive colour make it an excellent intermediate-level species.
