(F94) Apisto Double Red (Apistogramma cacatuoides “Double Red”)

Description

Apisto Double Red (Apistogramma cacatuoides “Double Red”)

📌 Basic Info

Scientific Name: Apistogramma cacatuoides
Common Names: Double Red Apisto, Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid, Apisto Cacatuoides Double Red
Family: Cichlidae (Dwarf Cichlids)
Order: Cichliformes
Origin: Western Amazon Basin — Peru, Brazil, and Colombia
Size: Males up to 3.5 inches (9 cm); females around 2 inches (5 cm)
Lifespan: 4 – 6 years
Tank Zone: Bottom and mid-water

🌊 Water Parameters

TDS: 80 – 200 ppm
pH: 6.0 – 7.5 (soft, slightly acidic to neutral)
Temperature: 24 – 28°C (75 – 82°F)
Hardness: 4 – 12 dGH

🐟 Characteristics

Body: Compact, elongated body with a high dorsal fin and vivid colors.
Coloration: Males exhibit bright red and orange on dorsal and caudal fins, with contrasting black edges — giving the “Double Red” name. Females turn bright yellow during breeding.
Behavior: Generally peaceful but territorial during spawning; very interactive with owners.
Unique Feature: Selectively bred color morph of A. cacatuoides known for double red banding on both top and tail fins.
Nature: Pair-bonding or harem-forming species; easy to breed in well-maintained aquariums.

🍽️ Food

Type: Omnivorous (micro-predator)
Diet: Live and frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, along with high-quality flakes and micro-pellets.
Feeding Frequency: 2–3 small meals per day.
Tip: Offer live food regularly to enhance color and breeding condition.

🛠️ Maintenance

Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons (75 L) for a pair; 30–40 gallons for small groups.
Filtration: Gentle filtration; sponge or canister filters preferred to protect fry.
Decor: Sand substrate, driftwood, caves, and leaf litter for hiding and spawning.
Lighting: Moderate; shaded areas with floating plants preferred.
Water Change: 20–30% weekly with clean, stable water.

👥 Social Behavior

Group Size: One male with 1–3 females (harem setup) or a bonded pair.
Tank Mates: Peaceful fish like Tetras, Rasboras, Pencilfish, Corydoras, and Otocinclus.
Avoid: Aggressive, fin-nipping, or large species.

✅ Do’s

• Maintain soft, clean, slightly acidic water.
• Provide multiple caves for territories and breeding.
• Feed a varied diet rich in protein and live foods.
• Keep a calm, planted environment.

❌ Don’ts

• Don’t house multiple males in small aquariums.
• Don’t mix with large or aggressive fish.
• Don’t neglect regular water changes.

⭐ Quick Tips

The Apisto Double Red (Apistogramma cacatuoides “Double Red”) is one of the most popular and colorful dwarf cichlids, celebrated for its brilliant red fins, curious personality, and easy breeding habits. Ideal for planted community aquariums, it adds both beauty and intelligence to the tank. A great choice for beginner to intermediate cichlid keepers looking for vivid color and behavior.