PAIR Apistogramma Cacatuoides «Double Red» – Double Red Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid (2 FISH MAIL & FEMAILE), Perfect Companions for Your Freshwater Community Tank, Easy to Care For and Breed
Original price was: £28.49.£24.19Current price is: £24.19.
Welcome these stunning Apistogramma Cacatuoides ‘Double Red’ to your aquarium! These vibrant dwarf cichlids are perfect for community tanks, showcasing beautiful red hues and elegant fins. Includes one male and one female, ideal for aquarists seeking colorful, peaceful companions.
988 in stock
Species Introduction
The Apistogramma Cacatuoides, commonly known as the Double Red Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid, is a stunning freshwater fish native to the Amazon River basin in South America. This species is particularly admired for its vibrant coloration and unique body shape, making it a favorite among aquarists. The Double Red variant is characterized by its striking red and yellow hues, which are particularly pronounced in males. These fish thrive in slow-moving waters rich in vegetation, where they find shelter and breeding grounds. As a member of the cichlid family, they exhibit fascinating behaviors and social interactions, making them not just beautiful, but also engaging aquatic companions.
Care Requirements Dashboard
Essential Care Guide for Your PAIR Apistogramma Cacatuoides «Double Red»
| Optimal Living Conditions | |
|---|---|
| Water Temperature | 24-27°C (75-81°F) |
| pH Level | 6.5-7.5 |
| Water Hardness | 4-12 dKH |
| Minimum Tank Size | 80L (20 gal) |
| Salinity | Freshwater |
| Care Level | Beginner Friendly |
Natural Behavior & Temperament
The Double Red Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid exhibits a range of fascinating behaviors that make it a joy to observe. Known for their territorial nature, especially during breeding periods, males often display vibrant colors and engage in elaborate courtship rituals to attract females. In a well-planted aquarium, these fish will establish territories, creating a dynamic environment where they can exhibit their natural behaviors. They are generally peaceful towards their tank mates but can become aggressive if they feel threatened or if their territory is encroached upon. It is essential to provide plenty of hiding spots and visual barriers within the tank to reduce stress and promote a harmonious community. Their social structure often includes a hierarchy, which can be observed during feeding times and territorial disputes.
Tank Setup Guide
Creating an ideal environment for the Apistogramma Cacatuoides involves replicating their natural habitat as closely as possible. A minimum tank size of 20 gallons is recommended, with a sandy substrate that mimics the riverbeds of their native Amazon. Incorporating driftwood, rocks, and dense vegetation will provide essential hiding spots and breeding areas. Plants such as Java Fern, Anubias, and Cryptocoryne are excellent choices, as they thrive in the conditions preferred by these cichlids. Additionally, maintaining a gentle water flow will help create a serene environment that mirrors their natural habitat. Lighting should be moderate, as overly bright conditions can stress these fish. A well-planted tank not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also promotes the well-being of your aquatic companions.
Water Quality Management
Good Water Quality: Essential for Health
Maintaining optimal water quality is crucial for the health of your Double Red Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlids. Regular water changes of 20-30% every week are recommended to keep nitrate levels low and ensure a stable environment. The ideal pH range for these fish is between 6.0 and 7.5, with a temperature range of 75°F to 82°F. It is important to monitor these parameters using reliable test kits. Additionally, maintaining a hardness level between 5 and 15 dGH will provide a comfortable living environment. Filtration should be efficient yet gentle, as strong currents can stress these delicate fish. Regularly check for ammonia and nitrite levels, as these should always be at zero for the health of your aquatic friends.
Feeding & Nutrition
The dietary needs of Apistogramma Cacatuoides are diverse, as they are omnivorous fish. A well-balanced diet should include high-quality flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. It is advisable to feed them small portions multiple times a day to mimic their natural foraging behavior. A varied diet will not only enhance their coloration but also promote overall health and vitality. It is essential to avoid overfeeding, as this can lead to water quality issues and health problems. Observing their feeding habits will help you determine the right amount to provide, ensuring that each fish receives adequate nutrition without excess waste being produced in the tank.
Compatibility Guide
Peaceful Community Fish
When selecting tank mates for your Double Red Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlids, it is important to choose peaceful species that can coexist harmoniously. Suitable companions include small tetras, rasboras, and other dwarf cichlids. Avoid larger or more aggressive species that may intimidate or harm your cichlids. The ideal community tank should have ample hiding spots and territories to minimize stress and aggression. It is also advisable to keep them in pairs or small groups to promote social interactions and reduce territorial disputes. Always monitor the dynamics within the tank, as individual personalities can vary, and some fish may be more aggressive than others.
Health & Wellness
The health of your Apistogramma Cacatuoides can be influenced by various factors, including water quality, diet, and tank conditions. Common health issues include ich, fin rot, and stress-related diseases. Regularly observing your fish for signs of distress, such as changes in behavior, appetite, or physical appearance, is crucial for early detection of potential problems. Maintaining a stable environment with optimal water parameters will help prevent many health issues. Quarantining new arrivals before introducing them to your main tank can also minimize the risk of disease transmission. If you notice any signs of illness, it is important to act quickly and consult with an experienced aquarist or veterinarian for appropriate treatment options.
Breeding Information
Breeding Behavior: Fascinating and Rewarding
Breeding Apistogramma Cacatuoides can be a rewarding experience for aquarists. To encourage spawning, provide a breeding cave or flat surface where the female can lay her eggs. The male will display vibrant colors and perform courtship dances to attract the female. After spawning, the female will guard the eggs, which typically hatch within 48 to 72 hours. Once the fry are free-swimming, they can be fed infusoria or finely crushed flakes. It is essential to provide a separate breeding tank to protect the fry from potential aggression from adult fish. Monitoring the water quality and ensuring a safe environment will significantly increase the chances of successful breeding.
Acclimation Process
When introducing your new Apistogramma Cacatuoides to their new home, it is crucial to acclimate them properly to minimize stress. Begin by floating the sealed bag containing the fish in the tank for about 15-20 minutes to equalize the temperature. After this, gradually add small amounts of tank water to the bag over the next hour, allowing the fish to adjust to the water parameters. Once acclimated, gently release the fish into the tank using a net to avoid adding any transport water that may contain harmful substances. This careful introduction will help ensure a smooth transition into their new environment.
Long-term Care
Lifespan: 5-10 Years
With proper care, Apistogramma Cacatuoides can live for 5 to 10 years in captivity. It is essential to provide a stable environment with consistent water quality, a balanced diet, and a stress-free atmosphere. Regular maintenance, including water changes and tank cleaning, will contribute to their longevity. Observing their behavior and health will help you make any necessary adjustments to their care routine. Creating a nurturing environment will not only enhance their lifespan but also allow you to enjoy their vibrant colors and engaging behaviors for many years.
Natural Habitat Recreation
Recreating the natural habitat of the Apistogramma Cacatuoides in your aquarium will enhance their well-being and encourage natural behaviors. Aim for a biotope that mimics the slow-moving waters of the Amazon, incorporating sandy substrates, driftwood, and lush aquatic plants. The addition of leaf litter can also provide a natural feel and serve as a food source for fry. Maintaining a slightly acidic to neutral pH and stable temperature will further replicate their natural conditions. This thoughtful setup will not only benefit your fish friends but will also create a beautiful and dynamic aquarium display.
Seasonal Care Adjustments
Seasonal Changes: Monitor Closely
As the seasons change, it is important to monitor your aquarium conditions closely. During warmer months, ensure that the water temperature does not exceed 82°F, as higher temperatures can stress your cichlids. Conversely, in cooler months, maintaining a stable temperature is crucial. Adjustments to feeding schedules may also be necessary, as fish metabolism can slow down in colder temperatures. Regularly check water parameters and make necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable environment year-round.
Expert Tips
For those looking to enhance their experience with Apistogramma Cacatuoides, consider implementing the following expert tips. First, ensure that your tank is well-planted to provide hiding spots and reduce stress. Regularly observe your fish to understand their behavior and preferences. Establishing a consistent feeding routine will help them thrive. Additionally, consider keeping a small group of them to observe their social dynamics and interactions. Lastly, engage with local aquarist communities or forums to share experiences and gain insights from other enthusiasts.
Troubleshooting
Common Issues: Early Detection is Key
If you notice any signs of illness or unusual behavior in your Double Red Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlids, it is essential to address the issue promptly. Common problems include fin rot, which can be treated with appropriate medications, and ich, which often presents as white spots on the fish. Maintaining good water quality is the first line of defense against many health issues. If you encounter persistent problems, consider consulting with an experienced aquarist or veterinarian for tailored advice and treatment options.
Scientific Background
The scientific classification of the Apistogramma Cacatuoides places it within the cichlid family, known for their complex behaviors and diverse species. Research into their natural habitats has revealed much about their social structures and breeding behaviors. Conservation efforts are essential to protect their natural environments, as habitat destruction poses a significant threat to their populations in the wild. Understanding their biology and ecology can enhance the care provided in captivity and promote responsible aquarium practices.
Advanced Care Techniques
Enhance Your Fish’s Environment
For advanced aquarists, consider implementing techniques such as creating a breeding setup specifically designed for Apistogramma Cacatuoides. This can include using a separate tank with optimal conditions for breeding. Additionally, experimenting with different types of food can help enhance their coloration and overall health. Regularly changing the aquascape can also stimulate their natural behaviors and keep the environment engaging for both the fish and the keeper. Engaging in these advanced techniques will not only improve the quality of life for your fish friends but also deepen your understanding and appreciation of their needs.
Water Quality Parameters
Optimal Range
24-27°C
6.5-7.5
0 ppm
Caution Zone
22-24°C or 27-29°C
6.0-6.5 or 7.5-8.0
0.25-0.5 ppm
Danger Zone
<22°C or >29°C
<6.0 or >8.0
>0.5 ppm
Monitoring Tip: Test water parameters weekly and perform regular water changes to maintain optimal conditions for your aquatic friends!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What tank size is required for Apistogramma Cacatuoides?
For a pair of Apistogramma Cacatuoides, a minimum tank size of 60 litres is recommended. This provides ample space for swimming and establishes territories, which is crucial for their wellbeing. The layout should include hiding spots like caves and dense vegetation, allowing them to feel secure. Larger tanks are preferable, especially if you wish to keep additional tank mates. A well-maintained aquarium environment with proper filtration will support a stable ecosystem, which is vital for their health.
✓ Expert Tip
Consider adding a dark substrate, as it mimics their natural habitat and can enhance their colouration.
Q: What water parameters do Apistogramma Cacatuoides require?
Apistogramma Cacatuoides thrive in slightly acidic to neutral pH levels, ideally between 6.0 and 7.5. The temperature should be maintained between 24°C and 28°C, with a stable water hardness of 5-15 dGH. Regular water changes are essential to maintain these parameters, ensuring the health and vitality of your fish. Monitoring the water regularly with a quality test kit can help you identify any fluctuations and address them promptly.
✓ Expert Tip
Using a quality water conditioner can help to remove harmful chemicals and prepare tap water for your aquarium.
Q: How often should I feed Apistogramma Cacatuoides?
These fish benefit from a varied diet, which should be offered two to three times a day. A combination of high-quality pellets, frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, and vegetable matter will provide the necessary nutrients. Overfeeding can lead to poor water quality and health issues, so ensure that any uneaten food is removed promptly. Regular feeding schedules can help establish a routine, making it easier for your fish to adjust.
✓ Expert Tip
Incorporate occasional fasting days to promote digestive health and prevent obesity.
Q: What are the best tank mates for Apistogramma Cacatuoides?
Ideal tank mates for Apistogramma Cacatuoides include smaller, peaceful species such as rasboras, tetras, and dwarf catfish. Avoid aggressive or larger fish, as they can stress or bully the cichlids. It is wise to introduce new fish gradually and observe interactions closely. Providing ample hiding spots and territories will help reduce territorial disputes, ensuring a harmonious environment. Always consider the temperament and needs of potential tank mates.
✓ Expert Tip
Consider keeping them in a species-specific tank if you are new to fish-keeping, as this simplifies care and reduces stress.
Q: How do I properly acclimatise Apistogramma Cacatuoides to my aquarium?
Acclimatisation is crucial for reducing stress and ensuring a smooth transition for your new fish. Start by floating the sealed bag in the tank for about 15-20 minutes to equalise the temperature. After this, gradually introduce small amounts of tank water into the bag over a period of an hour. This allows the fish to adjust to the water parameters. Finally, gently release them into the aquarium, avoiding adding bag water to the tank. Monitor them closely for signs of stress during the initial days.
✓ Expert Tip
Dim the lights during acclimatisation to create a calmer environment for your fish.
Q: What are the signs of healthy Apistogramma Cacatuoides?
Healthy Apistogramma Cacatuoides exhibit vibrant colours, clear eyes, and active swimming behaviour. They should be responsive to feeding and display natural behaviours such as exploring their environment and utilising hiding spots. Any signs of lethargy, faded colours, or abnormal swimming patterns may indicate stress or illness. Regularly observing your fish can help you notice any changes in behaviour or appearance, allowing for prompt action if needed.
✓ Expert Tip
Keep a journal of your fish’s behaviour and health to track any changes over time.
Q: How do I successfully breed Apistogramma Cacatuoides?
Breeding Apistogramma Cacatuoides requires a separate breeding tank with suitable conditions, including a slightly lower pH and temperature. Provide flat surfaces for egg-laying, such as leaves or rocks. The female typically guards the eggs and cares for the fry after hatching. It is essential to remove the male after fertilisation to prevent aggression. Regular water changes and maintaining good water quality will support the health of the breeding pair and their offspring.
✓ Expert Tip
Introduce a varied diet to the breeding pair to enhance their condition before breeding.
Q: What temperature should I maintain for Apistogramma Cacatuoides?
The ideal temperature for Apistogramma Cacatuoides ranges from 24°C to 28°C. This temperature range mimics their natural habitat in the Amazon Basin, promoting optimal health and breeding conditions. It is crucial to ensure that the temperature remains stable, as fluctuations can stress the fish and lead to health issues. Using a reliable aquarium heater and thermometer can help maintain the desired temperature consistently.
✓ Expert Tip
Place the heater near water flow to ensure even temperature distribution throughout the tank.
Q: How long do Apistogramma Cacatuoides typically live in captivity?
With proper care, Apistogramma Cacatuoides can live for 5 to 10 years in captivity. Factors influencing their lifespan include water quality, diet, and overall tank conditions. Regular maintenance, including water changes and monitoring for diseases, will significantly contribute to their longevity. Providing a stress-free environment with appropriate tank mates will also enhance their quality of life and lifespan.
✓ Expert Tip
Keep a consistent feeding schedule and maintain optimal water conditions to promote a healthy lifespan.
Q: What type of substrate is most suitable for Apistogramma Cacatuoides?
A soft, dark substrate such as fine gravel or sand is ideal for Apistogramma Cacatuoides. This substrate not only mimics their natural habitat but also allows for easy digging and exploration, which are natural behaviours for these fish. Avoid sharp substrates that could injure their delicate fins. Additionally, incorporating leaf litter and driftwood can enhance the aesthetic and provide hiding spots, making the environment more comfortable for your fish.
✓ Expert Tip
Regularly clean the substrate to maintain water quality, as uneaten food and waste can accumulate.
Q: What behavioural patterns should I expect from Apistogramma Cacatuoides?
Apistogramma Cacatuoides display interesting behavioural patterns, often establishing territories and engaging in social interactions. Males can be territorial, especially during breeding, while females are typically more nurturing. They enjoy exploring their environment, foraging for food, and utilising hiding spots. Observing their interactions can be quite rewarding; however, it’s essential to monitor for signs of aggression, especially when establishing a hierarchy within the tank.
✓ Expert Tip
Create multiple hiding spots and visual barriers to reduce stress and aggression among tank mates.
Q: How can I prevent common diseases in Apistogramma Cacatuoides?
Preventing diseases in Apistogramma Cacatuoides involves maintaining excellent water quality and providing a balanced diet. Regular water changes, monitoring for signs of stress or illness, and quarantining new fish before introducing them to the main tank are essential practices. Additionally, keeping the tank clean and avoiding overcrowding can significantly reduce the risk of disease outbreaks. If any signs of illness appear, such as lethargy or unusual behaviour, prompt action is critical.
✓ Expert Tip
Consider adding aquarium salt in small amounts to help prevent certain diseases, but ensure it is suitable for your other tank mates.
Q: What lighting conditions do Apistogramma Cacatuoides prefer?
Apistogramma Cacatuoides prefer dim lighting, which mimics their natural habitat in the shaded waters of the Amazon. Providing areas of shade with plants and decorations can help them feel secure. Bright lighting may cause stress and encourage hiding behaviour. A light cycle of 10-12 hours a day is generally suitable, allowing for periods of darkness that are essential for their wellbeing. Adjusting the lighting intensity can help you observe their natural behaviours.
✓ Expert Tip
Using a dimmable LED light can allow you to adjust the brightness according to your fish’s needs.
Q: How do I recognise stress in Apistogramma Cacatuoides?
Signs of stress in Apistogramma Cacatuoides include erratic swimming, hiding excessively, or refusal to eat. Changes in colouration, such as fading or darkening, can also indicate stress. If the fish are displaying aggressive behaviour towards each other or other tank mates, this may signal a problem within the environment. Regular observation and understanding their normal behaviour will help you identify stress indicators early, allowing for timely intervention.
✓ Expert Tip
Reduce stress by maintaining stable water conditions and providing plenty of hiding spots.
Q: What natural habitat conditions should I replicate for Apistogramma Cacatuoides?
To replicate the natural habitat of Apistogramma Cacatuoides, aim for a well-planted aquarium with plenty of hiding spots and subdued lighting. They thrive in soft, slightly acidic water with plenty of leaf litter and driftwood, mimicking their environment in the Amazon Basin. Incorporating natural decorations not only enhances their habitat but also provides essential areas for breeding and territory establishment. Regular maintenance of these conditions will ensure a thriving environment for your fish.
✓ Expert Tip
Using Indian almond leaves can help replicate their natural habitat while providing beneficial tannins to the water.
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Emily Carter (verified owner) –
I recently purchased a pair of Apistogramma Cacatuoides «Double Red» and I couldn’t be happier! After just two weeks in my 20-gallon tank, these little beauties have completely transformed my aquarium. Their vibrant colors and dynamic personalities are such a joy to watch. The male has developed stunning red fins, and the female is equally beautiful with her subtle shades.
I was initially concerned about compatibility issues, but they settled in quickly and began exploring their new home right away. I made sure to provide plenty of hiding spots with driftwood and plants, which I believe helped them feel secure. They are a lot more interactive compared to some other dwarf cichlids I’ve kept before, which makes them a delight.
I highly recommend this pair for any aquarium enthusiast looking to add personality and beauty to their tank. Just make sure you have a peaceful community setup, as they’ll thrive best in a stress-free environment. I’m already considering purchasing another pair!
Overall, the shipping was quick and they arrived healthy, which is always a plus when buying aquarium fish online. If you’re a fish lover like me, these Apistogramma Cacatuoides are definitely worth it!