Cockatoo dwarf cichlid

Apistogramma cacatuoides

A cockatoo-like front dorsal crest; red-black fins belong to this ornamental form.

Tall front dorsal rays and a broad tail distinguish the male; females look different.

Adult length: Up to 5 cm (standard length, without the tail fin)
Water temperature: 22–29 °C
pH: 6–8
Hardness: 0–15 dGH

Natural habitat: Native to tributary systems of the Ucayali, Amazon and Solimões rivers.

A brood-guarding female may drive the male away; provide retreat and a separation option.

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Appearance and identification

This Double Red male combines an elevated anterior dorsal crest with a broad tail and red-black fin markings. Double Red, Orange Flash and gold are ornamental forms. Females and wild forms need not show these red fins; compare head, lateral markings and fin outlines rather than colour alone.

Social behaviour and territory

Watch both sexes during breeding. A purchased male and female are not necessarily a pair; keep different collection populations separate for breeding.

Compatibility limits

Consider cave territories, feeding competition and origin individually.

Space requirements

At least 60 × 30 cm for a pair; groups need more space and shelter.

Aquarium environment

Soft substrate, roots and shade-tolerant plants provide cover. Preserve cave entrances and bottom feeding space.

Diet and feeding

Offer suitably small live/frozen foods and accepted complete pellets; confirm subordinate fish feed.

Sources