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Scientific Name(s): Apistogramma cacatuoides
Common Name(s): Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid, Crested Dwarf Cichlid
Family: Cichlidae
Species Type: South American Cichlids
Maximum Size: 3.5 inches
Life Span: 5 years
Natural Habitat: South American rivers (Amazon River)
Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
Tank Region: Prefers middle or bottom of tank.
Possible Tank Mates: Other dwarf cichlids such as yellow dwarf cichlid or panda dwarf cichlid.
Description: One of the most colorful and commonly available Apistogramma species. This fish is highly farm/aquarium bred and raised, and thus has several color varieties; "sunset", "red", "double red", "triple red", "sun spot", just to name a few. One of the more forgiving of the Apistogramma species when it comes to water parameters.
Temperature Range 72°F - 80°F
Breeding Information: Quite easy. Condition the pair on live food. Will spawn on bogwood, broad leafed plants, and in upturned flowerpots.
Sexing Information: Males tend to have brighter colors and extended rays on the dorsal fin.
Diet: Feed live foods for best coloration. Flake is also accepted. Prefer to be kept in a tank with dense vegetation and lots of bogwood.
Temperment: Peaceful community fish
Common Diseases: None specific to species