Red edge dwarf cichlid

Here’s one that causes a lot of upset in Apistogramma fancier circles. Much of the time, the fish offered on sale as Apistogramma viejita is a completely different species — Apistogramma macmasteri. An easy way to tell them apart is to look at the dorsal fin. A true A. viejita male will have a dark red streak atop his dorsal fin, which A. macmasteri does not have. But then again, A. viejita is surprisingly rare in the hobby, so it’s incredibly unlikely you’ll be looking at one in the first place.

6Scientific name: Apistogramma viejita

6Pronunciation: Ap-iss-toe-gram-ah vee-ah-hee-tah

6Size: Males to 6cm, females to 4.6cm

6Origin: Upper Meta River basin, Colombia

6Habitat: The banks of streams and rivers through grassland, with lots of marginal plants

6Tank size: 60x30x30cm for a pair

6Water requirements: Soft and acidic water; 5.0-6.5pH, 1-5°H

6Temperature: 23-30°C

6Availability and cost: Unless you’ve specially imported it, you’re unlikely to see the real thing. Price subject to availability.