Can Apistogramma macmasteri and Badis (Chameleon Fish) Live Together?
Keeping Apistogramma macmasteri and Badis (Chameleon Fish) together is possible but requires caution due to potential behavioral clashes. Provide a spacious tank of at least 71 litres with plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress. Monitor behaviour closely, especially during the first few weeks.
At a Glance
Can your tank handle Apistogramma macmasteri and Badis (Chameleon Fish)?
Compatibility is only part of the answer. Test both fish with your real tank size, current stock, and maintenance needs to see if you have enough space and a safe stocking level before you add them.
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Behaviour & Temperament
Apistogramma macmasteri is a moderately assertive species (6/10), while Badis (Chameleon Fish) is moderately assertive (5/10). This modest difference means Apistogramma macmasteri may occasionally assert dominance over Badis (Chameleon Fish).
Apistogramma macmasteri and Badis (Chameleon Fish) both frequent the Bottom (Substrate) and Middle (Open Water) region of the setup. This overlap can increase competition for space, so providing ample room and cover is important to keep both species comfortable.
Additional behavioural considerations to keep in mind: Two territorial species may clash over territory, especially in smaller tanks.
To improve the chances of a peaceful coexistence in this community tank: Provide a significantly larger tank (at least 50% more volume than the minimum) to allow both Apistogramma macmasteri and Badis (Chameleon Fish) to establish separate territories. Add plenty of line-of-sight breaks using driftwood, rocks, and dense planting to reduce territorial confrontations.
Water Parameters
The safe temperature window for both species falls between 24°C and 25°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 24.5°C) for optimal comfort.
Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6 and 7.5. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.
For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 3–10 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.
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Tank Setup
To house Apistogramma macmasteri and Badis (Chameleon Fish) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 71 litres with a minimum length of 60 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.
Because this pairing requires extra vigilance, include plenty of hiding spots — caves, driftwood, and dense plant clusters — so the less dominant fish can retreat when needed.
Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Sand (Sifters), Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Leaf Litter/Blackwater, Plants - Densely covered. Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.
Both species do well with low (still water) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.
Suitable Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes large enough for both Apistogramma macmasteri and Badis (Chameleon Fish).
20 Gallon High
20 Gallon Long
29 Gallon Standard
30 Gallon Breeder
36 Gallon Bowfront
40 Gallon Breeder
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can Apistogramma macmasteri and Badis (Chameleon Fish) live together?
They can coexist, but the pairing requires careful monitoring. Provide ample space (at least 71 litres), plenty of hiding spots, and watch for signs of stress or aggression.
What size tank do Apistogramma macmasteri and Badis (Chameleon Fish) need?
A minimum of 71 litres (tank length at least 60 cm) is recommended. This provides enough space for both species to establish their own areas and reduces the likelihood of territorial disputes.
What water temperature is best for Apistogramma macmasteri and Badis (Chameleon Fish) together?
Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 25°C. A target of around 24.5°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.
Are Apistogramma macmasteri or Badis (Chameleon Fish) aggressive?
Apistogramma macmasteri is moderately assertive (6/10) and Badis (Chameleon Fish) is moderately assertive (5/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.
What pH do Apistogramma macmasteri and Badis (Chameleon Fish) need?
Both species overlap in the 6–7.5 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.
How do I manage Apistogramma macmasteri's territorial behaviour?
Provide line-of-sight breaks using rocks, driftwood, and dense planting. A larger tank gives Apistogramma macmasteri space to claim a territory without encroaching on the other fish's area. Adding décor that divides the tank into distinct zones works especially well.
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