Blue Acara

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Native to Central and South America, specifically in the river basins of Trinidad, northern Colombia and Venezuela. Prefers stagnant, turbid or slow waters, rich in floating plant covers and silty or sandy bottoms.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Known as the Blue Acara (now formally Andinoacara pulcher). Cichlid with a stocky and compressed body, round head and large eyes. The dorsal and anal fins lengthen to a point, especially in males. Grows to about 15-16 cm (6 inches).

Social Behavior: Among the South American cichlids it is considered one of the most moderate and peaceful. Forms lasting monogamous pairs. The marked territoriality emerges clearly only during courtship and defense of the offspring.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Wears a spectacular iridescent electric blue livery, with iridescent spots along the flanks and green/blue reticulations on the opercular face. Males develop more evident filiform extensions on the fins and are generally more massive than females.

Aquarium Setup: Tank starting from 100-120 liters (25-30 gallons) for a pair. Prefers a densely planted tank (since, unlike other cichlids, it does not compulsively uproot plants), soft sand bottom, flat stones for laying eggs and roots to provide shelter.

Diet and Feeding: Omnivorous and voracious micro-predator in nature. In the aquarium it enthusiastically accepts granules for cichlids, earthworms, brine shrimp, bloodworms and small pieces of fish/shrimp. Balance the protein diet with occasional plant additions (spirulina).

Water Quality: Steel fish, extremely famous for its tolerance to disparate chemical ranges. Survives pH between 6.5 and 8.0 and a wide spectrum of hardnesses (GH 3-15). The ideal temperature ranges from 22 to 30°C (72-86°F). Regular water changes are however recommended to minimize nitrates.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Ideal for medium or large sized community tanks. Can cohabit peacefully with large Tetras, massive Corydoras (like Brochis), Loricariids and other mild-tempered Cichlids. Will inevitably devour neons or fish 2-3 cm long.

Aquarium Reproduction: Very easy and prolific. Open substrate spawners: they clean a smooth rock where the female will glue hundreds of eggs. Both parents furiously protect eggs and fry, attacking without fear even the breeder's hands.

Risks and Diseases: Rustic and very resistant species. An overcrowded tank and absent water changes can trigger the "Hole in the Head Disease" (Hexamita/Spironucleus), typical of large cichlids. Easy to cure if water parameters are restored promptly.