The body shape is long and of middle height and the mouth is rather big with thick lips.

In addition, she lacks the elongated dorsal rays of the male and her ventral fins show a black leading edge.

There are several color forms which naturally occur in the wild; these include blues, yellows and some reds.

Small aquaria (less than 120 litres) should be avoided if more than a single pair is to be kept, as a female will protect an area of approximately 30 centimeters in radius.

If breeding is to be attempted in a community aquarium, fast-swimming fish should be avoided as they will poach the fry from the female A. cacatuoides.

In the case of very large aquariums, more males can be kept together, provided there is plenty of territory, such as wood, heavy planting, and caves.