Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=User:Lipin&action=edit&redlink=1" class="new" title="User:Lipin (page does not exist)">Lipin</a> (CC BY-SA 3.0)
NameCockatoo Dwarf Cichlid
Scientific NameApistogramma cacatuoides
Common NamesCockatoo Dwarf Cichlid, Cockatoo Cichlid, Cacatuoides Dwarf Cichlid
FamilyCichlidae
OriginSouth America, Amazon Basin, Peru, Bolivia
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)15
Max Size (Inches)3
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-82
pH Range6.0-7.5
Compatible SpeciesNeon Tetra, Cardinal Tetra, Rummy Nose Tetra, Corydoras Catfish, Otocinclus Catfish, Rasboras, Pencilfish
Description
The Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid is a popular and colorful South American cichlid, with males displaying an elaborate dorsal fin resembling a cockatoo's crest and vibrant finnage. They are relatively peaceful for cichlids but can be territorial, especially during breeding or when multiple males are present. This species thrives in a well-planted aquarium with plenty of hiding spots and soft, acidic water.
