Apistogramma Cacatuoides

Apistogramma cacatuoides, the cockatoo dwarf cichlid, is native to the upper Amazon River basin in Peru, Colombia, and Brazil. Males reach 5–8 cm and are renowned for the dramatically elongated anterior rays of the dorsal fin — flaring like the crest of a cockatoo parrot, the namesake feature. During courtship and territorial displays, males spread their vivid red, orange, and yellow fins in a spectacular fan — one of the most dramatic visual displays in dwarf cichlid keeping. Numerous selectively bred varieties are available, including double red, orange flash, and gold forms. Water conditions should be slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0) at 24–28°C in soft water. Cave-spawning behavior is typical: females deposit eggs in coconut shells or driftwood hollows and defend the territory ferociously — even chasing away the male. The species naturally practices polygyny; harem-style keeping with one male and multiple females in separate territories is a rewarding advanced approach. Among the most accessible Apistogramma species, cacatuoides is often recommended as an entry point into dwarf cichlid breeding.

Frozen food, Pellets