Apistogramma cacatuoides Super Red 3-5cm

Description

Apistogramma Cacatuoides Super Red

One of the most spectacular dwarf cichlids available, featuring intense fiery red finnage, outstanding personality, and fascinating breeding behaviour in a planted aquarium.

Quick Facts

  • Scientific name: Apistogramma cacatuoides
  • Common name: Super Red Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid
  • Adult size: 7–9 cm (male), 4–5 cm (female)
  • Tank size: 60L+ (80L+ recommended for breeding pairs)
  • Difficulty: 🟑 Intermediate
  • Temperament: Semi-peaceful

Is this for you?

βœ”οΈ Perfect if:

  • You want a colourful feature fish for a planted aquarium.
  • You enjoy fish with personality and intelligence.
  • You're interested in breeding dwarf cichlids.
  • You keep peaceful South American community fish.

❌ Avoid if:

  • You keep aggressive cichlids.
  • Your aquarium has very few hiding places.
  • You keep highly aggressive or fin-nipping fish.
  • You want a fish for very small nano aquariums.

Why choose the Super Red?

The Super Red is one of the most popular Apistogramma varieties in the world. Males develop spectacular bright red dorsal, caudal and anal fins, giving them the appearance of tiny freshwater reef fish.

Unlike many dwarf cichlids, Apistogramma cacatuoides is considered one of the hardiest species in the genus, making it an excellent introduction to keeping Apistogramma while still rewarding experienced aquarists.

Their inquisitive nature, stunning colours and fascinating breeding behaviour make them one of the true centrepieces of any planted aquarium.

Common mistakes

  • Keeping multiple males in undersized aquariums.
  • Not providing caves for females.
  • Housing with aggressive tank mates.
  • Maintaining poor water quality.
  • Expecting them to thrive in bare aquariums.

Care made simple

  • Temperature: 24–28Β°C
  • pH: 6.0–7.5
  • Diet: Premium pellets, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia and live foods
  • Water: Clean, stable and well-filtered
  • Setup: Fine sand, caves, driftwood, botanicals and dense planting

Pairs perfectly with

  • Cardinal Tetras
  • Rummy Nose Tetras
  • Corydoras
  • Pencilfish
  • Amazon botanicals, caves and driftwood
NTA Insight:
If someone asked us for just one Apistogramma to start with, the Super Red would be near the top of the list. They're generally more forgiving than many other Apistogramma species while offering incredible colours, loads of personality and fascinating breeding behaviour. They're one of those fish you'll find yourself watching far longer than you intended.

FAQ

Are Super Red Apistogramma suitable for beginners?

They're one of the easier Apistogramma species to keep, making them an excellent choice for hobbyists wanting to experience dwarf cichlids for the first time.

Can they live in a community aquarium?

Yes. They do well with peaceful South American fish such as tetras, pencilfish and Corydoras, provided they have plenty of hiding places.

Do they breed easily?

Yes. Females lay eggs inside caves and become excellent parents, while males defend the surrounding territory during breeding.

Why are they called Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlids?

Their tall, extended dorsal fin resembles the crest of a cockatoo, particularly in mature males displaying to females.

What makes the Super Red variety special?

The Super Red strain has been selectively bred for exceptionally bright red finnage, making it one of the most colourful and sought-after Apistogramma available.

Apistogramma cacatuoides Super Red 3-5cm

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SKU: CI13RM

πŸ“¦ Arrival Date: 14 May 2026

3 in stock  

$40.00


All prices include GST
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    Description

    Apistogramma Cacatuoides Super Red

    One of the most spectacular dwarf cichlids available, featuring intense fiery red finnage, outstanding personality, and fascinating breeding behaviour in a planted aquarium.

    Quick Facts

    • Scientific name: Apistogramma cacatuoides
    • Common name: Super Red Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlid
    • Adult size: 7–9 cm (male), 4–5 cm (female)
    • Tank size: 60L+ (80L+ recommended for breeding pairs)
    • Difficulty: 🟑 Intermediate
    • Temperament: Semi-peaceful

    Is this for you?

    βœ”οΈ Perfect if:

    • You want a colourful feature fish for a planted aquarium.
    • You enjoy fish with personality and intelligence.
    • You're interested in breeding dwarf cichlids.
    • You keep peaceful South American community fish.

    ❌ Avoid if:

    • You keep aggressive cichlids.
    • Your aquarium has very few hiding places.
    • You keep highly aggressive or fin-nipping fish.
    • You want a fish for very small nano aquariums.

    Why choose the Super Red?

    The Super Red is one of the most popular Apistogramma varieties in the world. Males develop spectacular bright red dorsal, caudal and anal fins, giving them the appearance of tiny freshwater reef fish.

    Unlike many dwarf cichlids, Apistogramma cacatuoides is considered one of the hardiest species in the genus, making it an excellent introduction to keeping Apistogramma while still rewarding experienced aquarists.

    Their inquisitive nature, stunning colours and fascinating breeding behaviour make them one of the true centrepieces of any planted aquarium.

    Common mistakes

    • Keeping multiple males in undersized aquariums.
    • Not providing caves for females.
    • Housing with aggressive tank mates.
    • Maintaining poor water quality.
    • Expecting them to thrive in bare aquariums.

    Care made simple

    • Temperature: 24–28Β°C
    • pH: 6.0–7.5
    • Diet: Premium pellets, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia and live foods
    • Water: Clean, stable and well-filtered
    • Setup: Fine sand, caves, driftwood, botanicals and dense planting

    Pairs perfectly with

    • Cardinal Tetras
    • Rummy Nose Tetras
    • Corydoras
    • Pencilfish
    • Amazon botanicals, caves and driftwood
    NTA Insight:
    If someone asked us for just one Apistogramma to start with, the Super Red would be near the top of the list. They're generally more forgiving than many other Apistogramma species while offering incredible colours, loads of personality and fascinating breeding behaviour. They're one of those fish you'll find yourself watching far longer than you intended.

    FAQ

    Are Super Red Apistogramma suitable for beginners?

    They're one of the easier Apistogramma species to keep, making them an excellent choice for hobbyists wanting to experience dwarf cichlids for the first time.

    Can they live in a community aquarium?

    Yes. They do well with peaceful South American fish such as tetras, pencilfish and Corydoras, provided they have plenty of hiding places.

    Do they breed easily?

    Yes. Females lay eggs inside caves and become excellent parents, while males defend the surrounding territory during breeding.

    Why are they called Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlids?

    Their tall, extended dorsal fin resembles the crest of a cockatoo, particularly in mature males displaying to females.

    What makes the Super Red variety special?

    The Super Red strain has been selectively bred for exceptionally bright red finnage, making it one of the most colourful and sought-after Apistogramma available.

    Live Arrival & Ordering FAQ

    Why do livestock prices sometimes change?

    Unlike manufactured products, fish and shrimp continue to grow and develop over time. Their value changes as they increase in size, develop colour, or become breeding pairs.

    Our prices are based on the current size, quality and availability of each specimen. While pricing often remains stable for around 3–4 months, it may be updated at any time to reflect these changes.

    We always aim to offer healthy, high-quality livestock at fair and competitive prices.

    Do you offer a live arrival guarantee?

    Yes. All livestock is covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee.

    In the rare event of DOA, please contact us promptly with clear photos of the livestock in the original unopened bag.

    Please review our full DOA and store policies before purchase.

    Can you ship to all states in Australia?

    No. Due to state restrictions, we cannot ship livestock or live plants to WA and TAS.

    What should I check before ordering?

    Before placing an order, make sure:

    • Your tank is fully cycled and stable
    • Your aquarium has enough space for the species
    • Your current livestock are compatible in temperament, size, and requirements
    • Your water parameters, habitat, and temperature suit the species
    • You are not adding too many fish at once
    What should I expect when my fish arrives?

    It is normal for fish, shrimp, or snails to look pale, stressed, or less active after shipping.

    This is temporary. Most livestock will settle and regain colour within a few days.

    How long does it take for fish to settle in?

    Most livestock will take 3–7 days to fully adjust to their new environment.

    Should I feed my fish immediately after arrival?

    No. We recommend waiting 24 hours before feeding to allow them to settle.

    If you already have fish in your tank, feeding them before introducing new arrivals can help reduce stress.

    Why do fish sometimes struggle after being added to a tank?

    In most cases, issues are caused by tank conditions, not shipping.

    • Uncycled or unstable tanks
    • Poor water parameters
    • Overstocking
    • Unsuitable tank mates
    What is Nano Tanks Australia’s main tip for new livestock?

    Most livestock losses happen in immature or unstable tanks, not during shipping.

    If your setup is not fully established, the risk to new arrivals is significantly higher.

    Not sure if this fish is right for your setup?

    If you are unsure whether this species suits your setup, contact us before ordering and we’ll help point you in the right direction.

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