Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid (Apistogramma cacatuoides)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameApistogramma cacatuoides

FamilyCichlidae

Also known asCockatoo Cichlid, Apisto Cacatuoides, Big Mouth Apisto, Double Red Cacatuoides

Care levelModerate

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentSemi Aggressive

Dietcarnivore

Adult size3 in

Minimum tank size20 gallons

Water parametersTemp 78-84°F, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-12 dGH

Appearance

Males have an exaggerated spiky dorsal fin (the 'cockatoo crest') and red-and-orange finnage; the 'double red' and 'triple red' strains are heavily orange-finned. Females turn bright yellow with black markings when guarding fry.

Difficulty and care for the Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid

Moderate

Origin and habitat

Amazon Basin (Peru, Brazil)

Keeper notes

The hardiest and most tolerant Apistogramma, good for first-time apisto keepers. Males are polygamous and territorial; keep one male with several females and provide many caves to divide territories. Will hunt shrimp and fry. Otherwise peaceful toward upper-water tankmates.

Log Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid in your reef tank

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