A tiny South American cichlid whose male flares a spiky, cockatoo-like crest of finnage in orange and red. A harem-keeping charmer for soft, warm planted tanks.
Temperament
Common health issues
- Ich (white spot)
- Fin rot
- Skin conditions
- Swim bladder disorder
Care at a glance
- ExerciseLow
A calm, unhurried swimmer — peaceful surroundings suit them best.
- GroomingEasy tank upkeep
No grooming here — steady water quality and routine tank care do it.
- Living spaceNano-tank friendly
Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.
- Owner experienceSome experience helps
A little know-how makes life smoother.
- Commitment3–5 years
Plan for a long, loving relationship.
Health to watch: Ich (white spot) · Fin rot · Skin conditions
📖 Care guide
The cockatoo dwarf cichlid (Apistogramma cacatuoides) is a diminutive cichlid from the whitewater tributaries of the upper Amazon in Peru, Colombia and Brazil. Males reach about 8 cm with dramatic spiky dorsal fins, while females stay near 5 cm; they live 3–5 years. It is one of the more tolerant and easily bred Apistogramma species. A harem of one male and two or three females suits a planted tank of 75 litres or more at a warm 24–29°C, with a pH of 6.0–7.5 — more forgiving than most apistos. Provide caves, driftwood, leaf litter and dense planting so each female can claim a small breeding territory. Soft, clean water brings out the male's best colour. They are micro-carnivores that prefer live and frozen foods such as baby brine shrimp, daphnia and bloodworm, alongside quality micro-pellets. Devoted mothers guard and herd their fry vigilantly. Sensitive to nitrate and stale water, their main risks are ich and bacterial or skin infections; frequent small water changes and a well-planted, stable tank keep these little cichlids healthy.
Frequently asked questions
How active is a Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid?
Low. A calm, unhurried swimmer — peaceful surroundings suit them best.
How much maintenance does a Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid need?
Easy tank upkeep. No grooming here — steady water quality and routine tank care do it.
What tank size does a Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid need?
Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.
Is a Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid a good fit for first-time owners?
Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.
How long do Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid live?
3–5 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.
What health issues affect the Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid?
Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Fin rot, Skin conditions. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.
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