Orange Flash Apistogramma (Apistogramma cacatuoides Orange Flash) Pairs 1M and 1F

The Orange Flash Apistogramma is a stunning selectively bred variety of Apistogramma cacatuoides, prized for its brilliant orange-red fins, striking markings and fantastic personality.

Mature males are particularly impressive, developing extended fins and intense colouration that makes them an incredible feature fish in planted, aquascaped and peaceful community aquariums.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Apistogramma cacatuoides “Orange Flash”

• Common Name: Orange Flash Apistogramma

• Adult Size: Approximately 6–8cm

• Diet: Omnivore

• Temperature: 24–28°C

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Temperament: Peaceful to Semi-aggressive

• Tank Level: Bottom to Mid-Water

• Minimum Tank Size: Approximately 60L+

• Breeding: Cave Spawner

Overview

Orange Flash Apistogrammas combine incredible colour with the fascinating behaviour dwarf cichlids are famous for.

Males typically grow larger and develop much more elaborate finnage, with brilliant orange-red colouration across the dorsal, caudal and pelvic fins. Females are generally smaller and less colourful but can develop beautiful yellow colouration, particularly when breeding.

These intelligent little cichlids quickly develop their own personalities and are fascinating to watch as they explore caves, driftwood and plants throughout the aquarium.

Behaviour & Compatibility

Orange Flash Apistogrammas are generally peaceful enough for a carefully selected community aquarium but, like most dwarf cichlids, they can become territorial — particularly when breeding.

Suitable tankmates can include:

• Tetras

• Rasboras

• Pencilfish

• Corydoras

• Small peaceful Catfish

• Other peaceful community fish

Avoid keeping them with highly aggressive or overly boisterous species that may intimidate them or compete heavily for food.

When breeding, females can become surprisingly protective of their cave and fry, so plenty of space and hiding places are important.

Aquarium Setup

A well-planted aquarium with plenty of driftwood, caves and shaded hiding places provides an ideal environment.

A fine sand substrate is highly recommended, allowing them to display natural behaviours such as sifting through the substrate while searching for food.

Coconut caves, small terracotta caves, driftwood and dense planting can all be used to create separate territories and help the fish feel secure.

Stable water parameters, good filtration and regular water changes are important for keeping them in excellent condition.

Feeding

Orange Flash Apistogrammas are omnivorous but particularly enjoy protein-rich foods.

A varied diet can include:

• Quality small cichlid pellets

• Frozen bloodworms

• Brine shrimp

• Daphnia

• Mysis shrimp

• Live foods where available

Providing a varied diet will help promote strong growth, intense colouration and breeding condition.

Breeding

Orange Flash Apistogrammas are cave spawners and can be a rewarding species to breed.

The female will typically select and defend a suitable cave, where the eggs are laid and guarded. Once the fry hatch, she will continue protecting and guiding them around the aquarium.

During this time females can become highly territorial, so suitable hiding places and enough space for other fish to retreat are important.

Why We Love Them

Orange Flash Apistogrammas offer everything we love about dwarf cichlids — incredible colour, interesting behaviour and loads of personality without requiring a huge aquarium.

A mature male displaying his brilliant orange-red finnage in a planted aquarium is an absolute standout.

Product photos are for reference only. As these are live fish, exact size, colour and markings may vary between individuals.

All live fish are carefully packed by Top Fin Aquatics for safe delivery throughout New Zealand.