Fishician®Diet
Carnivore – baby brine shrimp, micro worms, daphnia, small frozen mysis
Aquarium species profile
Apistogramma Viejita
Apistogramma viejita · South America (Colombia — Meta River tributaries)
Minimum tank20 gal
Adult size3"
Care levelModerate
TemperamentSemi-Aggressive
Temperature77–84°F
pH range5.5–7.0
Compatible tank mates
Small blackwater tetras, small corydoras, peaceful nano fish
Tank mates to avoid
Aggressive fish, other male Apistogramma
Care notes
Often confused with A. macmasteri — very similar but distinct. Males have lyre-shaped tails and brilliant coloration. Gold variety ('Gold Viejita') very popular. Cave spawner with strong maternal care by females. Females control breeding territory. Soft, acidic water preferred. Great addition to South American biotope tanks.
Check the whole aquarium. Tank size alone does not establish compatibility. Confirm adult size, water overlap, social grouping, territory, diet, and the individual animals before stocking.