About Apistogramma
The Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid, or Apistogramma cacatuoides, is one of the most spectacular and popular dwarf cichlids in the aquarium hobby. Named for the male's extraordinary dorsal fin that fans out like a cockatoo's crest, these fish display an incredible array of colors including vibrant oranges, reds, blues, and yellows. Native to the Amazon Basin in Peru and Brazil, they inhabit slow-moving streams with leaf litter and submerged roots. Males are significantly larger and more colorful than females, with impressive fin extensions that make them true showpieces. Females are smaller but display fascinating brood-care behavior, turning bright yellow with black markings when protecting eggs or fry. Apistogrammas are harem spawters in nature but can be kept as pairs in aquariums. They are peaceful community fish except when breeding, during which they become fiercely territorial. Their stunning appearance, interesting behaviors, and manageable size have made them favorites among intermediate aquarists seeking a centerpiece fish with personality.
Care Guide
Care Requirements
Tank Setup
Apistogrammas need caves and hiding spots throughout the tank. Use coconut shells, PVC pipes, rock caves, or driftwood with holes. Fine gravel or sand substrate for sifting. Heavily planted with dense areas and open swimming spaces. Floating plants help diffuse light. Gentle filtration essential; they dislike strong currents. Multiple caves allow territory establishment.
Water Quality
- Temperature: 72-84°F (22-29°C)
- pH: 5.0-7.0
- Water Hardness: Soft (1-8 dGH)
- Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
- Nitrate: <20 ppm
Soft, acidic water is essential for long-term health and breeding. Tannins from driftwood, almond leaves, or peat are highly beneficial. Stable parameters prevent stress. Regular water changes (25% weekly).
Feeding
Primarily carnivorous with small mouths. Feed:
- High-quality small carnivore pellets or flakes
- Frozen foods: bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia (daily)
- Live foods: blackworms, microworms, baby brine shrimp
- Occasional high-quality vegetable matter
Feed 2-3 small meals daily. They have high metabolisms and need varied protein-rich diet.
Behavior & Compatibility
Peaceful when not breeding but territorial during spawning. Males may fight; keep only one male per tank unless very large (55+ gallons) with visual barriers. Females can be kept together or with one male. Bottom-dwelling fish that establish territories. Excellent with peaceful dither fish like tetras and rasboras. Avoid boisterous or aggressive tank mates.
Common Health Issues
- Bloat/Constipation: From poor diet; ensure variety and avoid overfeeding
- Hole-in-the-head: Often from poor water quality or nutritional deficiencies
- Gill flukes: Common in wild-caught specimens; quarantine essential
- Internal parasites: Buy from quality breeders; quarantine new fish
Breeding
Cave spawners that form pairs or harems. Females care for eggs and fry while males guard territory. A cave with a small entrance is preferred. Soft, warm, acidic water triggers spawning. Eggs hatch in 2-3 days; fry free-swimming in 5-7 days. Female displays brilliant yellow breeding colors. Feed fry with baby brine shrimp and micro worms.
Tips for Success
- Keep one male with 2-3 females for best dynamics (harem setup)
- Provide multiple caves to prevent territory disputes
- Use driftwood and tannins for natural comfort and health
- Feed varied high-quality foods including live/frozen
- Quarantine for 3-4 weeks; wild-caught fish often carry parasites
- Buy from reputable breeders when possible
- Ensure soft, acidic water for long-term health
- Perfect centerpiece for South American blackwater biotopes