Compatibility brief
Can Apistogramma Macmasteri live with Neon Tetra?
Caution. Check the issues below before buying.
Compatibility score
Profile confidence: medium
How we decideFishori checks adult size and predation risk, behaviour, water requirements and tank needs before giving a verdict.
100L
Combined minimum footprint reference for these two species: about 100L (larger active fish often want more length).
Temperament gap (semi-aggressive vs peaceful) — needs space, structure, and careful observation, not a “drop and forget” mix.
Assessment details
Temperament difference
Top issueApistogramma Macmasteri is semi-aggressive, while Neon Tetra is peaceful. Expect chasing or stress unless the tank is large and heavily structured — monitor closely.
Narrow temperature overlap
Apistogramma Macmasteri and Neon Tetra have only a narrow shared temperature range. Maintaining stable water temperature will be important.
“Apistogramma Macmasteri is semi-aggressive, while Neon Tetra…”
Temperament difference
Next steps
Concrete changes, not "research more" filler.
- •Provide plenty of hiding spots and visual breaks so Neon Tetra can escape if harassed.
- •Neon Tetra should be kept in a group of at least 6 for best health and behaviour.
- Seriously Fish. Apistogramma macmasteri
Primary: species page covering Meta basin habitat, soft acidic water requirement, and the strong territorial behaviour at spawning sites.
- Practical Fishkeeping. Macmaster's Apistogramma
Secondary: editor coverage of colour variants (gold, red-mask) and the strong line-breeding of the species in the hobby.
- Seriously Fish. Paracheirodon innesi
Supports: aquarium size, water chemistry, temperament and compatibility (primary care reference).
- FishBase. Paracheirodon innesi
Supports: taxonomy and wild maximum size — translate to tank stocking, not a target number.
- Wikipedia. Paracheirodon innesi
Supports: general species background and common-name orientation only.
Try this next
Build the full stocking list with Apistogramma Macmasteri + Neon Tetra
Plan further
Check each species’ mates list, size the glass, then verify the full stock in the builder. Methodology explains how verdicts are produced.
Individual fish vary in personality. Fishori uses conservative hobby rules. Observe any new introduction closely, feed thoughtfully, and keep a quarantine or backup plan. This is not veterinary advice.
Profile data confidence: high. Checked against several solid care sources that mostly agree.