This article will cover the complete information about Cockatoo Cichlid (dwarf cichlid), a small, brightly colored freshwater fish from Central and South America. They are popular aquarium fish due to their beautiful colors, patterns, and peaceful nature.
Although they are not true cichlids, They are often grouped with other cichlid species due to their similar appearance and behavior. They are known as generally peaceful creatures, except when breeding, because the males can become very aggressive towards each other.
Their colors vary in the wild and captivity as they are selectively bred to produce stunning color variations. You’ll notice that the colors of the wild Cockatoo Cichlids tend to be less vibrant than the captively bred fish; that’s because they are selectively bred to bring out vibrant hues.
Hailing from the backwaters and streams of the Amazon River basin, they have been introduced to aquariums worldwide. They are also known as the Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid or Big Mouth Apistogramma, its scientific name is Apistogramma cacatuoides.
In their natural habitat, Cockatoo Cichlids typically inhabit murky waters with plenty of hiding places among the vegetation. They are also known to occupy areas with sandy substrates and rocky outcroppings.
Table of Contents
Species Summary
| Scientific Name: | Apistogramma cacatuoides |
| Family: | Cichlidae |
| Color Form: | Blue, green |
| Size: | 2-3.5 inches |
| Lifespan: | 3-5 years |
| Temperament: | Semi-aggressive |
| pH Range: | 6.5-8.0 |
| Care Level: | Moderate |
| Diet: | Carnivore |
| Minimum Tank Size: | 30 gallons |
| Tank Setup: | Densely planted freshwater |
| Compatibility: | Keep away from larger aggressive fish |
Cockatoo Cichlid Availability
Cockatoo Cichlids are widely available at pet stores and online retailers. Prices usually range from $5 to $15 per fish.
Some commonly recited color morphs are: blue, turquoise, green, yellow, orange, and red. Albino Cockatoo Cichlids are also available but are much less common than other color morphs.
Following are some online stores where you can purchase Cockatoo Cichlids:
- That Fish Place
- PetSmart
- Amazon
- Aquarium Coop
- Live Aquaria
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Cockatoo Cichlid Appearance
Cockatoo Cichlids are small, brightly colored freshwater fish native to Central and South America. They have grey bodies with black lines that trace the entire length of the fish, starting at the eye. Their orange dorsal fins are prominent, their bodies are long, and they have giant mouths.
They have a laterally compressed body shape with iridescent scales. The males tend to be more colorful than the females and often have longer fins.
The colors of Cockatoo Cichlids can vary greatly, from blue and green to yellow and orange. Some fish even have red or black patterns on their bodies.
Albino Cockatoo Cichlids are also available but are much less common than other color morphs.
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Cockatoo Cichlid Size and Growth Rate
Cockatoo Cichlids are relatively small fish, typically 2 to 3.5 inches long. Males tend to be slightly larger than males and can grow up to 4 inches in length.
Their growth rate is average; they will reach their full size after about 1-2 years.
Cockatoo Cichlid Lifespan
The average lifespan is 3 to 5 years, although some fish have been known to live up to 10 years in captivity.
Cockatoo Cichlid Behavior and Temperament
Cockatoo Cichlids are generally peaceful fish, but they can be territorial toward other fish of the same species. They should be kept with other peaceful fish that are of a similar size.
When keeping multiple Cockatoo Cichlids together, it's best to maintain a ratio of one male to two females. This will help to reduce the amount of aggression between the fish.
They are generally peaceful fish but can be territorial toward other species of the same species. They should be kept with other peaceful fish that are of a similar size.
When keeping multiple Cockatoo Cichlids together, it's best to maintain a ratio of one male to two females. This will help to reduce the amount of aggression between the fish.
Distinguishing Between Males And Females Cockatoo Cichlids
Males and females can be distinguished by their appearance. Males are usually larger than females and have longer fins. They also tend to be more colorful than females.
Females usually have a rounder body shape, and their colors are not as bright.
During reproduction, there are significant color milestones as well. The female’s belly turns bright red when ready to lay her eggs. After the eggs are laid, the male’s color turns orange as he guards the nest.
When the males try to attract the female’s attention for breeding, their colors become very bright, and their fins become more prominent. This color change is known as “flashing.”
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Cockatoo Cichlid Breeding
Cockatoo Cichlids are mouthbrooders, meaning that the female will carry the eggs and fry them in her mouth until they are ready to be released. To induce spawning, the water should be slightly warmer than usual, and the tank should be well-decorated with hiding places.
The female will lay up to 200 eggs, fertilized by the male. The eggs will hatch in about 24 hours. The fry will be free-swimming after about a week. They can be fed baby brine shrimp or other small live foods.
Cockatoo Cichlid Care Guide
Cockatoo Cichlids are relatively easy to care for and make a good choice for beginner aquarists. They are hardy fish that can tolerate a wide range of water conditions but prefer slightly acidic water with a pH of 6.0-7.5.
They also prefer water on the softer side with a hardness of 5-15 dH.
Cockatoo Cichlids inhabit murky waters in the wild with plenty of hiding places among the vegetation. They are also known to occupy areas with sandy substrates and rocky outcroppings.
When setting up an aquarium for Cockatoo Cichlids, it is essential to provide plenty of hiding places and a sandy substrate. They also need some rocks or driftwood for territory.
They are semi-aggressive, especially when breeding, so keeping them with other fish that are the same size or more prominent is best. It is also important to avoid keeping them with too peaceful fish, as they may become bullying.
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Cockatoo Cichlid Food and Diet
Cockatoo Cichlids are omnivorous, meaning they will eat plant and animal material. In the wild, their diet consists of insects, small crustaceans, and plant matter.
In the aquarium, they should be offered a variety of foods, including pellets, flakes, live food, and frozen food. It's essential to offer a variety of foods to ensure that your fish are getting all the nutrients they need.
Pellets and flakes are a good base diet. They should be offered live food and frozen food as well. Live food, such as brine shrimp and bloodworms, is a great way to add variety to your fish's diet. Frozen food, such as krill and mysis shrimp, is also a good option.
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Cockatoo Cichlid Tank Size
The minimum tank size is 30 gallons, but a larger tank is always better.
If you plan on keeping more than one Cockatoo Cichlid, you will need an even larger tank. Providing them with plenty of space to swim and hiding places is essential.
Cockatoo Cichlid Tank Mates
Cockatoo Cichlids are generally peaceful fish, but they can be territorial toward other fish of the same species. They should be kept with other peaceful fish that are of a similar size.
Some good tank mates for Cockatoo Cichlids include:
When keeping multiple Cockatoo Cichlids together, it's best to maintain a ratio of one male to two females. This will help to reduce the amount of aggression between the fish.
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Water Conditions
Cockatoo Cichlids are relatively easy to care for and can tolerate many water conditions. However, they prefer slightly acidic water with a 6.0-7.5. They also prefer water on the softer side with a hardness of 5-15 dGH.
Be sure to do regular water checks and perform bi-weekly partial water changes.
The optimal parameters to ensure healthy Cockatoo Cichlids are:
- pH level: 6.0 – 7.5
- Water hardness: 5 – 15 dGH
- Temperature: 75°F - 82°F (24°C - 28°C)
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Filtration
When we talk about the filtration of a Cockatoo Cichlid Tank, we have to think about the size of the tank first.
If you have a smaller tank, you might need to do more frequent water changes. But generally, a canister filter is a good option for this fish.
Following are some excellent filters with links that you can buy from amazon, their unique features, and price:
- Canister Filter: The multi-stage filtration system, 3 media baskets, self-priming, easy to set up, and quiet.
Price: $319.99
- Aquatop CF400 Canister Filter with UV Sterilizer: 3-stage filtration, UV sterilizer to eliminate algae and bacteria, comes with 4 media baskets
Price: $134.99
- Hang on Back Filter: 3-stage filtration, easy to set up and maintain, comes with a self-priming feature
Price: $54.99
- Undergravel Filter: Comes with a Bio-Wheel that provides a large surface area for beneficial bacteria to grow and has an adjustable flow rate.
Price: $36.99
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Heating
Cockatoo Cichlid requires a heater in their tank to maintain a stable water temperature. The ideal water temperature for them is between 75°F to 82° Fahrenheit. A regular heating schedule will help them stay healthy and comfortable in their tank.
Following are some of the things you need to know about Cockatoo Cichlid and heating:
- Your tank should have a heater to maintain a stable water temperature.
- The ideal water temperature is between 75°F to 82° Fahrenheit.
- A regular heating schedule will help them stay healthy and comfortable in their tank.
- Heating your tank keeps them healthy and comfortable. Follow a regular heating schedule to ensure the best possible care for your pet.
Some commonly recommended heaters for Cockatoo Cichlid tanks are:
- Eheim Jager Aquarium Thermostat Heater
- Fluval E Series Electronic Heater
- Aqueon Pro Submersible Aquarium Heater
- Zoo Med Repti Therm Under Tank Heater
- Tetra Aquarium Heater
If you have questions about choosing the right heater for your Cockatoo Cichlid's tank, please consult a qualified aquarium specialist.
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Lighting
Cockatoo Cichlids are not particularly demanding when it comes to lighting, but providing them with a light source that simulates their natural environment is still essential.
A good rule of thumb is to provide them with about 10-12 hours of light daily.
Some lighting options that are popular among Cockatoo Cichlid keepers are:
- Fluorescent bulbs
- LED bulbs
- Metal halide bulbs
Substrates
The color is essential when choosing a substrate for your Cockatoo Cichlid tank. They are attracted to bright colors, so choosing a substrate to accentuate them is a good idea.
Some substrates that are popular among Cockatoo Cichlid keepers are:
- Natural colored gravel
- Sand
- Brightly colored gravel
- Glow in the dark gravel
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Plants
Cockatoo Cichlids are not particularly demanding when it comes to plants, but there are still a few things you'll need to consider before adding plants to their tank. Some things you'll want to keep in mind are the size, the type of plants, and the number of plants.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing plants for your Cockatoo Cichlid's tank:
- The size of the plants: They are not particularly large fish, so you'll want to choose small to medium plants.
- The type of plants: A wide variety of plants are suitable for tanks. Some popular options include java ferns, anubias, and floating plants.
- The number of plants: Choosing various plants to add to your tank is a good idea. This will help create a more natural environment for your fish.
Decorations
Cockatoo Cichlids are not particularly demanding when it comes to decorations, but there are still a few things you'll want to consider before adding decorations to their tank.
You'll want to remember the size, the type of decorations, and the number of decorations.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing decorations for your Cockatoo Cichlid's tank:
- The size of the decorations: They are not particularly large fish, so you'll want to choose small to medium decorations.
- The type of decorations: A wide variety of decorations are suitable for tanks. Some popular options include driftwood, rocks, and caves.
- The number of decorations: It's a good idea to choose a variety of decorations to add to your tank. This will help create a more natural environment for your fish.
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Water Changes
Cockatoo Cichlids are not particularly demanding regarding water changes, but there are still a few things you'll want to consider before changing the water in their tank.
You'll want to remember the frequency of water changes, the amount of water that should be changed, and the type of water that should be used.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when changing the water in your Cockatoo Cichlid's tank:
- The frequency of water changes: It's a good idea to change the water in your tank at least once a week.
- The amount of water that should be changed: When changing the water in your tank, you'll want to change about 20% of the water.
- The type of water that should be used: It's best to use dechlorinated water when changing the water in your tank. You can use a water conditioner to remove the chlorine from your tap water.
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Cleaning the tank
You should perform a partial water change of 25% every other week. You will also need to vacuum the gravel and clean the filter media. Rinse the filter media in old tank water to prevent disrupting the beneficial bacteria colony.
To clean the tank, you will need the following:
- A sponge: We can use a sponge to wipe down the inside of the tank.
- A toothbrush: A toothbrush can be used to clean the filter.
- Freshwater: You will need fresh water to rinse off the sponge and toothbrush.
The steps for cleaning the tank are as follows:
- Remove the fish from the tank and put them in a temporary home.
- Remove all of the decorations from the tank.
- Use the sponge to wipe down the inside of the tank.
- Rinse the sponge and toothbrush with fresh water.
- Use the toothbrush to clean the filter.
- Rinse the sponge and toothbrush with fresh water.
- Add the decorations back to the tank.
- Add the fish back to the tank.
It is essential to clean the tank regularly to prevent the build-up of algae and bacteria. Algae and bacteria can be harmful to fish, and they can also cause the water to become cloudy.
Cleaning The Filter
It is essential to clean your filter regularly. A dirty filter can cause problems for your fish.
To clean your filter, you will need the following:
- A clean bucket: This is used to hold the old water.
- A garden hose: To rinse the filter media, we can use a garden hose.
- Filter media: Filter media is used to replace the old media.
To start, you will need to remove the filter from your tank. Then, use the clean bucket to hold the old water. Next, use the garden hose to rinse the filter media. Finally, replace the old media with new media.
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Cockatoo Cichlid Common Possible Diseases
Cockatoo Cichlids are relatively hardy fish, but there are still a few diseases that they can be susceptible to.
Some of these diseases include:
- White Spot Disease: White spot disease is caused by a parasite that attacks the fish's skin. The symptoms of this disease include white spots on the fish's body, loss of appetite, and scratching.
- Columnaris: Columnaris is a bacterial infection affecting fish's skin, gills, and fin. The symptoms of this disease include ulcers on the body, fraying of the fins, and increased mucus production.
- Ich: Ich is a parasitic infection that can affect the skin, gills, and fins of fish. The symptoms of this disease include: white spots on the body, increased mucus production, and scratching.
Cockatoo Cichlid Prevention and medication of diseases
The best way to prevent disease is to maintain a clean and healthy environment for your fish. This includes performing regular water changes and keeping the tank clean.
It would be best to quarantine new fish before adding them to your tank. This will help ensure that any diseases they may carry are not introduced to your other fish.
If your fish become sick, you must seek treatment from a veterinarian as soon as possible. They will be able to prescribe the appropriate medication for your fish.
Following are some medications that may be used to treat diseases in Cockatoo Cichlids:
- Ichthyophthirius multifiliis (Ich): This parasitic infection can be treated with erythromycin.
- Columnaris: This bacterial infection can be treated with kanamycin, neomycin, or tetracycline.
- White Spot Disease: This parasitic infection can be treated with metronidazole medication.
Cockatoo Cichlids are relatively hardy fish, but there are still a few diseases that they can be susceptible to. Some of these diseases include white spot disease, columnaris, and ich.
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Advantages Of Having Cockatoo Cichlid In Your Tank
The main advantage of having Cockatoo Cichlids in your tank is that they are generally peaceful fish. They can get along with other fish of similar size and temperament.
Another advantage of Cockatoo Cichlids is that they are easy to breed. Cockatoo Cichlids are an excellent option if you are interested in breeding fish.
Disadvantages Of Having Cockatoo Cichlid In Your Tank
One disadvantage of Cockatoo Cichlids is that they can be territorial toward other fish of the same species. If you are keeping multiple fish together, it's essential to maintain a ratio of one male to two females.
Another disadvantage of Cockatoo Cichlids is that they require a diet of both live and frozen food. This can be expensive and difficult to maintain.
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Summary
Before adding any fish to your tank, it's important to research to ensure the fish are compatible with your setup. Cockatoo Cichlids are generally peaceful fish, but they can be territorial toward other fish of the same species. They should be kept with other peaceful fish that are of a similar size.
When keeping multiple Cockatoo Cichlids together, it's best to maintain a ratio of one male to two females. This will help to reduce the amount of aggression between the fish.
Cockatoo Cichlids require a diet of both live and frozen food. This can be expensive and difficult to maintain. If you are willing to put in the effort to provide them with a proper diet, then Cockatoo Cichlids can make a great addition to your tank.
At last, the decision is up to you whether you want to have Cockatoo Cichlids in your tank or not. We hope that this article has helped you to make a decision.
