{"product_id":"apistogramma-cacatuoides-pair","title":"Apistogramma Cacatuoides \"Orange\"","description":"\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Apistogramma cacatuoides “Orange” is the cockatoo dwarf cichlid reimagined in a radiant orange palette—an eye-catching centerpiece for a thoughtfully planned community or species tank. This South American originator is renowned for its engaging behavior, compact size, and the ease with which it adapts to well-managed home aquariums. As the most commonly bred Apistogramma in captivity, the Orange morph brings reliability, consistent temperament, and a splash of color that stays vivid with proper care.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch2\u003eDistinctive features that set the Orange apart\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVibrant orange coloration\u003c\/strong\u003e with characteristic cockatoo-like fins, producing a striking focal point in any setup.\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCompact, peaceful dwarf cichlid\u003c\/strong\u003e ideal for community tanks and nano aquariums when given proper hiding spots.\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStraightforward breeding biology\u003c\/strong\u003e—paired behavior, predictable egg laying on flat surfaces, and fry that respond well to live or enriched prepared foods.\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHardiness in captivity\u003c\/strong\u003e thanks to its popularity in the hobby, with established care practices that support consistent health and color.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e \u003ch2\u003eIdeal tank setup and care\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo showcase the Orange morph at its best, aim for an aquarium that’s at least 20 gallons for a bonded pair, with larger space if you’re keeping multiple individuals or introducing others. Create a dim, tissue-soft environment with plenty of cover—driftwood, caves, and live or tall enough plants—to mimic their natural, sheltered habitats. Soft to moderately soft water in the range of pH 6.0–7.5 and temperatures between 74–82°F (23–28°C) keep this cichlid comfortable and color-rich. A gentle filter and stable water conditions reduce stress and encourage vibrant plumage and active exploration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause they’re territorial during breeding, provide multiple hiding spots and visual barriers. Turquoise, botanically inspired aquascapes or densely planted corners help reduce aggression and give fry safe zones as the adults defend their territory.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch2\u003eDiet and feeding behavior\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Orange cockatoo thrives on a varied, high-quality diet. Feed a mix of high-quality sinking pellets or flakes, complemented by frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and finely chopped bloodworms. Offer small, frequent meals rather than a single large portion to keep their metabolism steady and to maintain bright coloration. Always rinse any new foods and observe for any digestive sensitivity, adjusting as needed to maintain vitality and color depth.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch2\u003eBreeding in view: what to expect\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBreeding is one of the most rewarding aspects of keeping Apistogramma cacatuoides. When a compatible pair forms, you’ll notice dedicated territory preparation and a preference for laying eggs on broad, flat surfaces like slate or coconut shells. The female typically incubates the eggs for several days, with the male guarding the territory nearby. After hatching, feed the fry small infusoria or finely crushed freeze-dried foods, progressing to newly hatched artemia as they grow. With careful water quality management and regular feeding, you can witness a thriving, colorful brood that adds vitality to your tank for weeks.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch2\u003eWho the Orange is ideal for\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003eHobbyists seeking a visually striking, manageable dwarf cichlid for a community or species-tank setup.\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eAquarists wanting a reliable, breeding-friendly fish that demonstrates engaging parental behavior.\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eKeepers who value a South American cichlid that adapts well to well-maintained tanks with soft to moderately soft water.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e \u003ch2\u003ePractical tips to maximize color and health\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003eKeep water stable and pristine with regular partial water changes; sudden shifts dull color and stress the fish.\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eProvide a mix of micro-habitat features—slate, driftwood, and modest plant density—to support natural hiding and breeding behaviors.\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eA balanced diet rich in variety sustains color vibrancy and reproductive stamina.\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eMonitor compatibility in mixed species tanks; avoid large, aggressively territorial fish that could intimidate the dwarf cichlids.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e \u003cp\u003eWith its captivating orange hues and approachable care profile, the Apistogramma cacatuoides “Orange” offers an exceptional blend of beauty, behavior, and resilience. It’s more than a pretty face in your aquarium—it’s a dynamic, engaging species that thrives under thoughtful husbandry and rewards you with lively activity, interesting courtship displays, and thriving offspring when you’re ready to breed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Iven Betta","offers":[{"title":"Male","offer_id":46111238684972,"sku":"","price":133.0,"currency_code":"DKK","in_stock":true},{"title":"Female","offer_id":46111238619436,"sku":"","price":133.0,"currency_code":"DKK","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0003\/6555\/9870\/products\/3dc3111a95aa27c3732fa6cf6e1f4859.jpg?v=1602817150","url":"https:\/\/bubblenestib.com\/en-dk\/products\/apistogramma-cacatuoides-pair","provider":"ivenbetta","version":"1.0","type":"link"}