The Apistogramma cacatuoides "Super Red" is a popular and particularly vibrant colour morph of the Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid. These small South American cichlids are prized for their striking appearance and relatively peaceful nature, making them a favourite among both beginner and experienced aquarists. The "Super Red" variety is especially sought after for its intense red coloration on the fins.
Here's what makes the Apistogramma cacatuoides "Super Red" so appealing:
Appearance:
- The "Super Red" distinguishes itself with brilliant, fiery red coloration that typically covers the dorsal, anal, and caudal (tail) fins. This red is often more intense and widespread than in other colour variations like "Double Red" or "Triple Red."
- Males are more intensely coloured and possess the characteristic elongated rays in their dorsal fin, giving them the "cockatoo" appearance. They also have extended ventral (pelvic) fins and a lyrate tail.
- The body usually has a blue-violet sheen with a horizontal black stripe, providing a beautiful contrast to the vibrant red fins.
- Females are typically smaller and have a more subdued coloration, often appearing yellowish or brownish with a black lateral line. However, even females can show hints of red in their fins, and they turn a brighter yellow when breeding.
Care Requirements:
The care for Apistogramma cacatuoides "Super Red" is similar to that of the standard Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid:
- Tank Size: A minimum of 60 liters (around 15-20 gallons) is recommended for a pair. Larger tanks are needed for keeping a group (one male with multiple females is often recommended).
- Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 22-29°C (72-84°F), with 24-28°C (75-82°F) being ideal.
- pH: 6.0-7.0, soft and slightly acidic water is preferred.
- Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (4-18 dGH).
- Substrate: A soft, sandy substrate is best as they may sift through it while foraging.
- Décor: Provide a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding places such as caves (ceramic caves, coconut shells), driftwood, and leaf litter. These help reduce stress and mimic their natural environment.
- Filtration: Good filtration is essential to maintain water quality, but avoid strong currents. Sponge filters are often recommended, especially in breeding tanks.
- Lighting: They prefer dimmer lighting, which can be achieved with dense planting or floating plants.
Temperament and Tank Mates:
-
Apistogramma cacatuoides are generally peaceful but can become territorial, especially during breeding. Males can be aggressive towards each other, so it's best to keep only one male per tank unless it's very large with ample hiding places.
- They are suitable for community tanks with other small, peaceful fish that occupy the middle and upper levels of the water column, such as tetras, rasboras, and peaceful bottom dwellers like Corydoras.
- Avoid housing them with larger or aggressive fish that may intimidate or harm them. They may also prey on small shrimp and fry.
Diet:
- They are omnivores with a preference for meaty foods.
- A varied diet should include high-quality flake or pellet food as a staple, supplemented with live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and Mysis shrimp.
Breeding:
- Breeding Apistogramma cacatuoides is relatively straightforward in the home aquarium.
- Provide caves or other secluded areas for the female to lay her eggs.
- The female will typically guard the eggs and fry, while the male defends the surrounding territory.
- Stable water conditions and a protein-rich diet can help induce spawning.
- Once the fry are free-swimming, they can be fed baby brine shrimp or finely crushed flakes.
The Apistogramma cacatuoides "Super Red" is a stunning and engaging dwarf cichlid that can bring a burst of colour to a well-maintained aquarium. Their relatively easy care requirements and fascinating behaviours make them a popular choice for many aquarists.
