Apistogramma cacatuoides
Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid
Apistogramma cacatuoides is a hardy and colorful dwarf cichlid. Males are larger and much more colorful than females, featuring vibrant oranges and reds on their fins. They are cave spawners.
Ensure perfect water for Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid ➔
Perfect for Aquaware Monitoring
🐟
Note: Requires Stability
Avoid stress caused by fluctuating parameters. To boost the immune system, smart monitoring (e.g., with Aquaware) is the best path to long-term health.
Temperature
24 - 28 °C
75 - 82 °F
pH Value
6.0 - 7.5 pH
Acidity Level
Mineral Content (TDS)
50 - 250 ppm
✅ Ideal for Aquaware Sensor
Did you know?
Unlike many other Apistogramma, Cockatoo Cichlids are more adaptable to harder water.
Aquaware Pro Tip
Provide plenty of coconut huts or small clay pots to serve as breeding caves.
Natural Habitat
Shallow streams and forest pools with leaf litter in the Amazon basin.
Diet & Nutrition
Carnivore/Omnivore. High-quality granules and frozen foods like brine shrimp.
Behavior
Peaceful but territorial during breeding. Best kept in harems (one male, multiple females).
Max Size
5-8 cm (2-3 inches)
Average adult size
Lifespan
3-5 years
Years with proper care
Swim Zone
Preferred tank region
Top
Mid
Bottom 🦞
Min. Tank
80 Liters
Recommended minimum size
Social
2 Fish
Small group required
Add. Space
20 L
Required per additional fish
(5 Gallons)
(5 Gallons)
💧 +20 Liters needed