FREE SHIPPING ON ACCESSORIES & PLANTS AFTER $69.99 & LIVE FISH AFTER $199.99

FREE SHIPPING ON ACCESSORIES & PLANTS AFTER $69.99 & LIVE FISH AFTER $199.99

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FULLY QUARANTINED FISH WITH A 2 WEEK GUARANTEE

A  live stream on YouTube each Wednesday (audio and visual) week, and the release audio only on Spotify on the Sunday.

Is light-hearted fun, information, and different views on all things aquarium and tropical fish tank-related

Tips and tricks that we have learned over the years of keeping tropical fish.

EXPAND YOUR KNOWLEDGE WITH EDUCATIONAL ARTICLES, EXPERT INTERVIEWS, AND PODCAST BY THE FISH ROOM NZ

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Apistogramma caucatoides

 NZ Bred

Cockatoo Dwarf Cichlids (Apistogramma Caucatoides)

 Native Location: South America

Climate: Freshwater

Maximum Size: 5 – 9 cm (2 – 3.5 inches)

Temperament: Semi- aggressive

Diet: Carnivorous

Breeding: Moderate

Temperature Range: 22 – 29℃ (79 – 84℉)

Preferred pH Range: 5.0 – 6.0

Minimum Aquarium Size: 76 L (20 gallons)

Potential Tankmates: Tetras

Care Level: Intermediate

Cockatoos Dwarfs are popular cichlid fish, perfect for mid to larger aquariums with intermediate hobbyists.

Cockatoo Dwarfs are carnivorous predators and will require a variety of nutrition to live a healthy lifestyle. They will enjoy insects, larvae and worms, but for balance will need flake and pellet foods. Cockatoo Dwarfs are peaceful unless in their breeding season, or they feel threatened by other fish in their environment. So fish of a similar size and temperament are most suited to inhabiting the same space. When around more aggressive or active fish, they can become stressed and shy. While female and male Cockatoos can live well together, you should limit the males living amongst themselves, one male to every 5 – 6 females.

Cockatoo Dwarfs, even in their most optimal conditions, can be prone to parasitic, bacterial and viral infections. Diseases can be managed by consistently checking water parameters, avoiding temperature fluctuations, and conducting water changes. In their tank, Cockatoo Dwarfs will need a fine substrate, as bottom dwellers, gravel, or larger stone substrates will cause damage to their soft bellies. Dark substrates will mimic their wild amazon inhabitants. These fish will also enjoy densely planted tanks along with caves and driftwood for hiding places and breeding spots. They will need a tank large enough to accommodate all of these needs.

Male Cockatoos are slightly larger than their female counterparts and have more forked fins. Males also have more vibrant colours in healthy conditions and during breeding seasons to attract mates. Cockatoo Dwarfs will spawn eggs in caves which can make the process of breeding a little more complicated. The males job is over once the eggs are fertilised; females will protect their eggs until they hatch.

All our fish are quarantined on arrival for two weeks. During this time, they are treated for any possible diseases and given a complete health check  to make sure they are health, happy and eating well before being placed in our display aquariums, ready for sale.

Dead on Arrival (DOA) Policy: In the unfortunate event that your fish arrives dead, please follow these steps: Within 12 hours of the delivery, take clear, unopened bag pictures showing the deceased fish. Send these photographs and your order number to our customer service email at getfish@thefishroom.co.nz or to our Facebook page and we will then offer a refund or store credit for the cost of the fish. 

Two-Week Guarantee Policy: We stand behind the health and quality of our fish, which is why we offer a two-week guarantee starting from the day of delivery. If your fish dies within this time frame, adhere to the following procedure: Take clear photos of the deceased fish. Using a reliable test kit, document via a dated photo, water parameters (pH, ammonia, nitrate, nitrite levels). Please email us the photographs, water parameters, and order number to getfish@thefishroom.co.nz or our Facebook page. After reviewing your claim, if approved, we will issue a store credit for the cost of the fish. Our two-week guarantee does not cover fish deaths due to unsuitable water conditions, incompatible tank mates or “disasters” i.e. a heater overheating. We recommend thoroughly researching each fish species' needs before introducing them to your aquarium to prevent such situations. 

 Freight Charges: Please note that shipping or freight charges are non-refundable under all circumstances. We hope this guide makes our refund and guarantee process more understandable. If you have any questions or need further clarification, please get in touch with us at getfish@thefishroom.co.nz. We are always happy to assist. Thank you for choosing The Fish Room. Happy fish keeping! 

Customer Reviews

Based on 2 reviews
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G
Grant Dame
Beautiful Fish

Love these

K
Karen Hieatt
Bingo

A couple of weeks and I have a horde of babies - she’s brought them out of the cave today - what a clever pair - I’m definitely a repeat customer