Apistogramma cacatuoides "Double Red" Care Guide
Apistogramma cacatuoides "Double Red" is a selectively bred form of the cockatoo dwarf cichlid from the Amazon basin, with double red rows on the fins.
Overview
Apistogramma cacatuoides "Double Red" is a selectively bred form of the cockatoo dwarf cichlid showing double red rows on the caudal and dorsal fins. The wild species is a small South American dwarf cichlid; males are larger with elongated dorsal rays and brighter colour, while females are smaller and duller.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Apistogramma
- Scientific name: Apistogramma cacatuoides "Double Red"
- Described: Hoedeman, 1951 (wild species)
Habitat
The wild species occurs in the Amazon River basin, in tributaries of the Ucayali, Amazon and Solimões rivers from the Pachitea River to Tabatinga. It inhabits shallow streams and lagoon-like waters over leaf-covered bottoms. The Double Red is a captive-bred colour line of this species.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 80 L
- Temperature: 24-29 °C (75-84 °F)
- pH: 5.5-7.5
- GH: 2-12 °dGH
- Decor: caves and a sand substrate with leaf litter
- Lifespan: 4-6 years
Diet
The species is a small carnivore. In the aquarium it accepts frozen and live invertebrates and quality prepared foods. Several small feedings per day suit its size.
Compatibility
The species is semi-aggressive, mainly around its breeding cave, and tolerates a wide pH range. Suitable companions include cardinal tetras, hatchetfish, Corydoras and Otocinclus. Other Apistogramma, angelfish and larger aggressive cichlids should be avoided.
Breeding
The species is a cave spawner. The female deposits and tends the eggs on a cave ceiling, producing up to about 80 eggs per spawning, while the male guards the surrounding territory. Breeding is of intermediate difficulty in soft, slightly acidic water.