Orange Cockatoo Cichlid (Apistogramma cacatuoides) CareSheet

Apistogramma cacatuoides, often known as the Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid or Big Mouth Apistogramma, is a species of Apistogramma. The Apistogramma is found in South American streams and backwaters. The bright orange coloring of this variety has been carefully developed. These fish have an extended body and a large dorsal fin. The dorsal fin's back half, as well as the tail, have a bright orange coloring.

The Orange Cockatoo Cichlid should be maintained in a 30 gallon aquarium with densely planted clusters at a minimum. They demand a large number of open swimming areas as well as hiding spots. It's best to use a fine gravel to sand substrate. The Apistogramma, although being a semiaggressive fish, is also shy and should not be kept alongside big, aggressive fish. They need proper water conditions and must be changed on a regular basis.

Orange Cockatoo Cichlids are egg layers that like to deposit their eggs in caves. The male will arrive after the female has deposited her eggs to fertilize them. The male then abandons the brood to the female after conception. Within seven to ten days, the fry will be able to swim on their own, at which point they should be fed freshly born brine shrimp. The fry will achieve sexual maturity in around five months since they are a fast-growing species.

The Orange Cockatoo Cichlid is a carnivorous fish that eats a broad range of foods. These fish will eat freeze-dried bloodworms and tubifex, flake food, and both frozen and live brine shrimp and worms.

Requirements for keeping Apistogramma cacatuoides Orange

Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Care Level: Moderate
Tank Conditions: 72-86°F; pH 5.0-7.0
Max. Size In Aquarium: Up to 3½"
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Diet: Carnivore

"Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid" Apistogramma cacatuoides The Orange Flash