Apisto Cacatuoides (School of 4)
Juvenile Cacatuoides (or Cockatoo) can be hard to sex. To ensure a nice mix of sexes and to keep these little dwarf cichlids feeling more at home, a small group of four might be a good purchase for a larger community tank.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Apistogramma cacatuoides |
|---|---|
| Origin | Peru, Colombia and Brazil (Amazon basin) |
| Care Level | Easy, a good first apisto |
| Temperament | Peaceful (males territorial with each other) |
| Adult Size | Males up to 3″; females about 2″ |
| Lifespan | 3–5 years |
| Diet | Varied, omnivorous (high-quality flake, frozen foods, and live foods) |
FAQ
What is the ideal tank size for keeping Apisto Cacatuoides?
A tank of at least 20 gallons is recommended to provide enough space for a group of four, especially considering their active nature and territorial behavior among males.
Are Apisto Cacatuoides suitable for beginners?
Yes, they are considered easy to care for and are a great first choice for new aquarium enthusiasts due to their peaceful temperament and low maintenance needs.
Do males become aggressive toward each other?
Males can become territorial, especially as they mature. A group of four with a balanced mix of sexes helps reduce aggression and promotes a more harmonious environment.
Rose Roberts –
I bought a school of four Apisto Cacatuoides for my 30-gallon community tank. They’ve been active and peaceful since arrival. The males don’t fight much, and the coloration is vibrant. Easy to feed with flakes and occasional frozen foods. A great addition to a beginner-friendly setup.
Austin Kerr –
These fish are small and colorful. I mixed two males and two females, and they’ve coexisted well. They don’t require much attention, and I noticed they’re very active during the day. Just make sure the tank has plenty of hiding spots to reduce stress.
Carol Hughes –
Perfect for a small tank. The fish are lively and stay calm even with other community fish. I’ve kept them for over a year and they’re still healthy. The care level is simple, and they thrive on a varied diet.