Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid (Apistogramma cacatuoides) CareSheet

Double Full Red Cockatoo Cichlid, Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid, or Big Mouth Apistogramma are all popular names for Apistogramma cacatuoides. The Apistogramma is found in South American streams and backwaters. The striking red and black colour of this variety has been carefully cultivated. These fish have an extended body and a large dorsal fin. The dorsal fin, as well as the tail, are brightly colored in red and black.

The Double Full Red Cockatoo Cichlid should be housed in an aquarium with thickly planted groups that is at least 30 gallons. 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 semi-aggressive fish, is also shy and should not be kept alongside big, aggressive species. They need proper water conditions and must be changed on a regular basis.

The Double Full Red Cockatoo Cichlid loves to spawn in caves and is an egg layer. 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 carnivorous Double Full Red Cockatoo Cichlid will eat 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

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

Double Full Red Cockatoo Cichlid