Mainelyapistodreamer
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A little about my tank:
It's a dirted, planted setup with sand on top, driftwood, rocks, and a mix of plants, including Rotala rotundifolia, Cryptocorynes, and tiger lotus. I've also got loads of red root floaters and have started to see emergent growth going on. I'm aiming for a natural, overgrown lake-edge look, with plenty of cover and interesting territory for the fish, but I want to leave open sandy areas for potential bottom dwellers.
The tank is heated (79°F) and filtered 40gal submerged). I'm currently working through the nitrogen cycle. I've seen ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate show up in my testing, so the biological process is underway, but I'm not adding fish until the tank is ready. Right now, I'm observing, testing, adjusting, and letting the plants do their thing. I also have a few tiny hitchhiker snails and other microfauna making themselves at home!
The long-term plan:
I'd love to build a peaceful community around a future A. macmasteri setup. I'm still researching appropriate schooling fish and possible bottom-dwelling tank mates with compatibility, behavior, temperature, and water parameters taking priority over appearance alone. I have a soft spot for fish with that little minnow-like schooling behavior, and I'm trying to find the right balance between a natural-looking community and the needs of the Apistos.
I'm also interested in eventually keeping Neocaridina shrimp, although I'm thinking carefully about the order of additions and how everything might work together. I'm not in a rush to cram the tank full; I'd rather build the ecosystem slowly and get it right.
I'd love some input from the group!
If you're keeping A. macmasteri, what tank mates have worked well for you, and what would you avoid?
Are there any schooling fish you'd recommend that are genuinely compatible with their temperature and water requirements?
Is there anything you wish you'd known before keeping this species?
Are there any Apistogramma keepers or breeders in Northern Maine or the broader Maine/New England area? I'd love to connect with local hobbyists, learn from your experiences, and potentially find reputable sources for fish when the time comes.
I'm absolutely open to constructive feedback, suggestions, and different perspectives. I'm here to learn, and I'd much rather rethink a plan now than make a mistake with the fish later!
Looking forward to meeting everyone and seeing your tanks.
