Apistogramma cacatuoides 

Cockatoo Cichlid

Distribution

The type locality was originally given incorrectly as Paramaribo, Suriname but this was later amended by Kullander to the “Amazon River basin, between 69°W and 71°W”. The species is currently considered widespread throughout much of the upper Amazon basin from the ríos Ucayali and Amazonas in Peru to the Solimões in western Brazil. Some populations exhibit notable differences in colour patterning.

Habitat

Tends to inhabit slower-moving tributaries, backwaters and creeks in areas where fallen leaf litter collects and these may contain black, white or clear water depending on locality or in some cases, time of year.

Maximum Standard Length

Male: 7.5 cm Female: 5 cm

Aquarium SizeTOP ↑

Base dimensions of 60 ∗ 30 cm or more are acceptable for a single pair with a group requiring larger quarters.