Blue Acara

• ExerciseModerate

  An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.

• GroomingAttentive tank care

  Sensitive to water quality — stay on top of testing and maintenance.

• Living spaceNano-tank friendly

  Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Owner experienceSome experience helps

  A little know-how makes life smoother.

• Commitment8–12 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Ich (white spot) · Fin rot · Swim bladder disorder

The Blue Acara (Andinoacara pulcher) comes from Venezuela, Colombia and Trinidad and reaches about 15 to 18 cm. It is one of the hardiest medium-sized cichlids in the trade, tolerating a wide pH band from about 6.5 to 8.0 and temperatures from 22 to 28C, which is unusual among South Americans. The Electric Blue Acara sold alongside it is a captive-bred colour line of the same species, not a separate fish. A pair is comfortable in 200 litres or more with a sand bed, driftwood, flat stones and sturdy or potted plants, since it will sift substrate and move things around. Feed a quality cichlid pellet with frozen bloodworm, mysis and brine shrimp. Temperament is moderate: it holds a territory and will spar over a spawning site, but it does not roam the tank looking for trouble and works well with similarly sized, robust community fish such as larger tetras, corydoras and rainbowfish. It is a sensible first medium cichlid, and a pair will often spawn on a flat stone without any special encouragement.

• How active is a Blue Acara?

  Moderate. An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.

• How much maintenance does a Blue Acara need?

  Attentive tank care. Sensitive to water quality — stay on top of testing and maintenance.

• What tank size does a Blue Acara need?

  Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Is a Blue Acara a good fit for first-time owners?

  Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.

• How long do Blue Acara live?

  8–12 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Blue Acara?

  Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Fin rot, Swim bladder disorder. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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