Apistogramma macmasteri

Villavicencio - dwarf cichlid ( Apistogramma macmasteri )

The Villavicencio - dwarf cichlid ( Apistogramma macmasteri ), also called macmasteri, is a species of the family of cichlids. They are among the species that are commonly kept in aquariums.

Appearance

Adult males have high backs and reach a body length of eight to nine inches. The females remain - as is typical for many Apistogramma species - much smaller. You are in the adult stage from about six inches. In its coloring the fish are highly variable. Among the characterizing features of hochrückige body and the males particularly high dorsal fin with strongly elongated fins skins heard.

Area of ​​distribution and habitat

As for Apistogramma species typical of the distribution area of this species is very small. Until now, the fish were found only in Colombia near the town lying at the foot of the Andes Villavicencio.

In this habitat the fish are only found in areas with very low water level. Juveniles were found in regions where the water level were only one to two centimeters. Typical of this habitat are deciduous leaves lying on the seabed and a thick stock of plants, between which hide the fish.

Reproduction

The fish are hiding breeders who put their eggs preferably in caves under rocks or on the underside of leaves. The female takes care of the brood, while the male defends the territory.