Apistogramma cacatuoides — Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid
Family: Cichlidae
Origin: Western Amazon Basin — Peru, Brazil, and Bolivia
Size:
Males: Up to 8 cm (3.1 inches)
Females: Up to 5 cm (2 inches)
Lifespan: 3–5 years
 
Natural Habitat
Environment: Slow-moving tributaries, forest creeks, and oxbow lakes
Water Conditions: Soft, slightly acidic blackwater with dense vegetation and leaf litter
Temperature Range: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
 
Physical Description
Body Shape: Slender and elongated with prominent dorsal fins
Coloration:
Males: Vibrant oranges, reds, and yellows with extended fin rays and a cockatoo-like crest
Females: More subdued yellow with black markings
Fins: Males have long, colorful dorsal and caudal fins; females have shorter, rounded fins
 
Note: Many selectively bred color variants exist, such as "Double Red," "Triple Red," and "Orange Flash."
 
Aquarium Care
Tank Size: Minimum 60 litres (15+ gallons) for a pair
Water Parameters:
pH: 5.5–7.0
Hardness: Soft to moderately soft (1–10 dGH)
Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
Water Flow: Low
Substrate: Fine sand with leaf litter and caves
Décor: Provide driftwood, coconut huts, rocks, and live plants for territory and spawning sites
Filtration: Gentle flow with high water quality
 
Diet
Type: Carnivorous
Preferred Foods:
Frozen or live foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia
High-quality micro pellets or granules
Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times per day
 
Behavior & Tank Mates
Temperament:
Males are territorial but not overly aggressive
Females are defensive when breeding
Compatible Tank Mates:
Peaceful, small species like tetras, pencilfish, rasboras, and Corydoras
Avoid larger, aggressive, or fin-nipping fish
Behavior Notes:
Enjoys hiding spots and established territories
Will display vibrant colors and courtship behavior during breeding
 
Breeding
Spawning Method: Cave spawner
Breeding Conditions:
Soft, slightly acidic water and multiple caves
Female lays eggs in a hidden area and tends to fry alone
Fry Care:
Eggs hatch in 2–3 days
Fry become free-swimming in ~7 days
Feed infusoria or powdered fry food
 
Conservation Status
IUCN Status: Not Evaluated
Notes: A centerpiece species for planted and blackwater nano aquariums. Their intelligent, interactive behavior and striking appearance make them a favorite among dwarf cichlid keepers