The cockatoo dwarf cichlid (Apistogramma cacatuoides) is a semi-aggressive fish that grows to about 3 inches and spends its time near the bottom. It can be kept on its own, in a tank of 20 gallons or more, at 75–84°F and pH 6–7.5.
20 galsmallest tank
3″adult size
75–84°Ftemperature
6–7.5pH
1+group size
Semi-aggressivetemperament
Good tankmates
Avoid
- ✕White cloud mountain minnow: Cockatoo dwarf cichlid and White cloud mountain minnow need different temperatures (75–84°F vs 60–72°F).
- ✕Rosy barb: Cockatoo dwarf cichlid and Rosy barb need different temperatures (75–84°F vs 64–72°F).
- ✕Betta: Betta attacks, or is attacked by, Cockatoo dwarf cichlid.
- ✕Dwarf gourami: Dwarf gourami attacks, or is attacked by, Cockatoo dwarf cichlid.
- ✕Paradise fish: Paradise fish is aggressive and best kept alone.
- ✕Convict cichlid: Convict cichlid is aggressive and best kept alone.
- ✕Oscar: Oscar is aggressive and best kept alone.
- ✕Fancy goldfish: Cockatoo dwarf cichlid and Fancy goldfish need different temperatures (75–84°F vs 65–72°F).
From TankCoach's own species data: common hobby guidance for adults, rounded. Individual fish vary. Not veterinary advice.