Blue Acara (Aequidens pulcher)

Scientific Name(s): Aequidens pulcher, Aequidens pulchrus, Cychlasoma pulchrum

 

Common Name(s): Blue Acara

 

Family: Cichlidae

 

Species Type: South American Cichlids

 

Maximum Size: 6 inches

 

Life Span: 10 years

 

Natural Habitat: South American rivers and streams

 

Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons

 

Tank Region: All over

 

Possible Tank Mates: Compatible with most community fish that have the same water requirements but also work with less aggressive south american cichlids such as firemouth meeki, convicts and severums

 

Description: The Blue Acara has a more broad forehead than other Acara species and is a bit more courteous than the others as well. Though a more peaceful member of the Cichlid family, the Blue Acara is apt to bully smaller fish. They should be kept with the same size or larger fish. They like a tank bottom of fine sand and plenty of hiding places among rocks and wood. Plants are appreciated, but the Blue Acara love to dig and can uproot them. Hardy plants such as Sagittaria and Vallisneria are best, and should be potted to protect the roots. They do need frequent water changes as their excretions will cloud the water and promote disease. The Blue Acara will breed every two weeks on a regular basis if the fry are removed shortly after hatching. They are excellent parents though, and will not harm the fry if you do leave them in the aquarium.

 

Temperature Range 68°F - 79°F

60°F

65°F

70°F

75°F

80°F

85°F

90°F

 

pH Range 6.5 - 8

pH 5.0

pH 6.0

pH 7.0

pH 8.0

pH 9.0

 

Hardness 10° - 20°

0°

10°

20°

30°

40°

 

Breeding Information: The yellow acara is a substrate spawner but breeding in captivity has proven to be difficult. Feeding the fish well and similating rainfall by adding collected rainwater can assist in encouraging the fish to spawn.

 

Sexing Information: Mature males dorsal and anal fins are elongated and pointed.

 

Diet: Omnivorous - does well with flakes and pellets but supplimental foods such as frozen or fresh green vegetables are good too.

 

Temperment: Peaceful

 

Common Diseases: None specific to species.

 

This profile has been viewed 54647 times.

 

VIEW THIS FISH ON TANKPLANNER.COM

Blue Acara (Aequidens pulcher)