Apistogramma cacatuoides

The Apistogramma cacatuoides, commonly known as the Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid, is a colourful South American dwarf cichlid prized for its bold personality, elongated dorsal fins and vibrant red, orange and black markings. Males are especially striking, while females remain smaller and often develop bright yellow breeding colouration. They are an excellent feature fish for peaceful planted community aquariums when given plenty of cover and territory.

• Adult size: Males approximately 7.5 cm, females around 5 cm

• Temperament: Generally peaceful for a cichlid, but can become territorial when breeding

• Social behaviour: Not a schooling fish. Best kept as a single pair or, in larger well-structured aquariums, one male with multiple females

• Tank mates: Suitable with peaceful tetras, pencilfish, rasboras, Corydoras and other small community species. Avoid aggressive cichlids or fish likely to compete heavily for bottom territory

• Recommended temperature: 22–29°C

• Recommended pH: Around 5.0–7.0 for captive-bred fish, with softer and more acidic water preferred for breeding

• Water hardness: Soft to moderately hard, up to approximately 15 dGH

• Minimum tank size: Around 55–60 L for a pair, with larger tanks recommended for groups or community setups

• Tank setup: Provide a soft sandy substrate with plenty of caves, driftwood, plants and shaded hiding areas. Leaf litter and botanicals can also help recreate their natural environment

• Diet: Primarily carnivorous; offer quality sinking pellets alongside frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia and bloodworms

• Care level: Intermediate

• Breeding behaviour: Cave spawner. Females become strongly territorial while guarding eggs and fry and may chase the male or other bottom-dwelling fish away from the nest

Unlike tetras and rainbowfish, Apistogramma cacatuoides do not need to school with their own species. Their main requirement is adequate territory and hiding places. Captive-bred individuals can work very well in community aquariums, but extra space and cover are important if a pair begins breeding.

Live fish are sold subject to availability and may vary slightly in size and colouration. Please review our livestock shipping and DOA guarantee before ordering.