Apistogramma cacatuoides (Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid) – Bold Personality and Vibrant Fins for Planted Aquariums
The Apistogramma cacatuoides, or Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid, is a popular and strikingly colorful South American cichlid known for its elongated dorsal fins, vivid colors, and feisty personality. Males typically display bright shades of orange, red, yellow, or electric blue, especially in high-quality strains like “Double Red” or “Super Red.”
These dwarf cichlids are peaceful enough for community tanks when kept with suitable tankmates, yet bold and full of character — often becoming the centerpiece of planted or biotope setups. While they prefer soft, slightly acidic water, Apistogramma cacatuoides are among the hardiest Apisto species, making them a great choice for aquarists venturing into dwarf cichlids.
Scientific Name: Apistogramma cacatuoides
Common Name: Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid
Size Shipped: ~1–1.5 inches
Adult Size: Males ~3 inches | Females ~2 inches
Temperament: Semi-peaceful, territorial when breeding
Lifespan: 3 – 5 years
Swimming Level: Bottom to mid-water
Origin: Tank-bred
Temperature: 74°F – 82°F (23°C – 28°C)
pH: 6.0 – 7.4
GH: 4 – 10
KH: 1 – 5
Tank Size: 20+ gallons (larger for multiple pairs)
Aquascape: Planted tanks with caves, driftwood, and hiding spots
Filtration: Gentle to moderate flow; clean, stable water is key
✔ Bold coloration and flowing fins — especially in high-grade strains
✔ Active and intelligent behavior
✔ Hardy for a dwarf cichlid — great for first-time Apisto keepers
✔ Compatible with peaceful fish and shrimp in well-planned setups
✔ Ideal for biotope, planted, or showcase aquariums
High-quality sinking pellets and micro granules
Frozen or live foods: brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia
Occasional flakes or soft gel-based foods
Feed 1–2 times daily in small portions
Whether you're looking to start with dwarf cichlids or add personality and color to your planted aquarium, the Apistogramma cacatuoides is a hardy, charismatic choice with brilliant visual appeal and fascinating behavior.
Apistogramma cacatuoides (Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid) – Bold Personality and Vibrant Fins for Planted Aquariums
The Apistogramma cacatuoides, or Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid, is a popular and strikingly colorful South American cichlid known for its elongated dorsal fins, vivid colors, and feisty personality. Males typically display bright shades of orange, red, yellow, or electric blue, especially in high-quality strains like “Double Red” or “Super Red.”
These dwarf cichlids are peaceful enough for community tanks when kept with suitable tankmates, yet bold and full of character — often becoming the centerpiece of planted or biotope setups. While they prefer soft, slightly acidic water, Apistogramma cacatuoides are among the hardiest Apisto species, making them a great choice for aquarists venturing into dwarf cichlids.
Scientific Name: Apistogramma cacatuoides
Common Name: Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid
Size Shipped: ~1–1.5 inches
Adult Size: Males ~3 inches | Females ~2 inches
Temperament: Semi-peaceful, territorial when breeding
Lifespan: 3 – 5 years
Swimming Level: Bottom to mid-water
Origin: Tank-bred
Temperature: 74°F – 82°F (23°C – 28°C)
pH: 6.0 – 7.4
GH: 4 – 10
KH: 1 – 5
Tank Size: 20+ gallons (larger for multiple pairs)
Aquascape: Planted tanks with caves, driftwood, and hiding spots
Filtration: Gentle to moderate flow; clean, stable water is key
✔ Bold coloration and flowing fins — especially in high-grade strains
✔ Active and intelligent behavior
✔ Hardy for a dwarf cichlid — great for first-time Apisto keepers
✔ Compatible with peaceful fish and shrimp in well-planned setups
✔ Ideal for biotope, planted, or showcase aquariums
High-quality sinking pellets and micro granules
Frozen or live foods: brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia
Occasional flakes or soft gel-based foods
Feed 1–2 times daily in small portions
Whether you're looking to start with dwarf cichlids or add personality and color to your planted aquarium, the Apistogramma cacatuoides is a hardy, charismatic choice with brilliant visual appeal and fascinating behavior.
