Our Guide To Keeping Blue Acara Cichlid Fish

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Andinoacara pulcher
   • Common name: Blue Acara Cichlid
   • Family: Cichlidae
   • Origin: South America, specifically in rivers and lakes in Panama and Costa Rica
   • Adult length: 15 to 20 cm
   • Lifespan: 8 to 10 years

2. Tank Setup:

   • Blue Acara Cichlids prefer a spacious tank with plenty of hiding places such as caves, driftwood, and plants.
   • Provide a substrate of sand or fine gravel to mimic their natural environment.

3. Water Parameters:

   • Maintain water temperature between 22 to 28°C (72 to 82°F).
   • Keep the pH level around 6.5 to 7.5.
   • Water hardness should be moderate, between 5 to 15 dGH.

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • Use a good quality filtration system to maintain water quality.
   • A moderate water flow is suitable for Blue Acara Cichlids.

5. Diet:

   • Blue Acara Cichlids are omnivorous and will accept a variety of foods including high-quality cichlid pellets, flakes, and live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and small insects.

6. Tank mates:

   • They are generally peaceful and can be kept with other medium-sized, peaceful fish such as tetras, barbs, and rasboras.
   • Avoid keeping them with aggressive or very small tank mates.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • Blue Acara Cichlids are known for their peaceful temperament but can be territorial, especially during breeding.
   • They are good parents and may become aggressive when protecting their fry.