The blue acara is a very colorful freshwater fish in the cichlid family. This fish can be found in various freshwater habitats, ranging from standing water to flowing streams, in Venezuela and Trinidad.
The blue acara is one of the most peaceful cichlid species, even among family cichlids. Mature males display an overall iridescent blue sheen with some yellow fins. Females are more yellow in colour, but they display a very attractive blue pattern during spawning. The blue acara Cichlid is extremely hardy and is very easy to breed in the aquarium.
The blue acara Cichlid will thrive in an aquarium with a sandy substrate and plenty of refuge such as clay pots, driftwood, and rock formations. It is an excellent candidate for the planted aquarium, but it also needs a fair amount of open space. This cichlid is generally compatible with other peaceful fish as long as it has plenty of room. Territoriality is typically at its peak during spawning. Dwarf shrimp and other small, delicate invertebrates should not be kept with the The blue acara Cichlid, but more durable, larger shrimp and snails could possibly make good tank mates in a large enough aquarium. If spawning is desired, tank mates of other species should be kept to a minimum or avoided altogether.
Feeding is simple for the unfussy The blue acara Cichlid. High-quality dry, frozen, and live meaty foods will all be readily accepted. Supplemental vegetable matter is also required. Quality and variety are the keys to a diet that will ensure that this fish maintains optimal health and coloration.
What We Like About This Fish:
- Beautiful neon blue coloration across most of the
- Very hardy with plenty of personality
- Easy to breed in the aquarium
- Compatible with many other species in a spacious tank
- Safe with ornamental plants
RECOMMENDED TANK PARAMETERS:
- Temperature: 72° - 77° F (22° - 25° C)
- pH: 6.0 - 7.5, tank-raised specimens are more flexible regarding pH level
- KH: 0 - 10 KH
- Minimum tank size: 15-20 gallons for a trio, but a larger aquarium should be used for a community of several specimens.
CARE GUIDELINES:
- Diet: Carnivorous. A variety of high-quality dry, frozen, and live meaty foods is necessary for optimal health and coloration. Some vegetable matter is also necessary.
- Social behaviour: Congregates loosely in groups. Females can be territorial during spawning.
- Origin: Tank-bred, but indigenous to Suriname, South America
- Average adult size: 3 inches,