Cichlid-Electric Blue Acara - 40mm

All our fish, shrimp and corals are bagged with fresh oxygen as well as a heat pack in winter.

When ordering livestock please select the box size and add it to your cart for accurate overnight (1-2 days) shipping costs. A small box can take 1-2 bags and a medium box 6 bags. One bag fits max 10 small (1-3cm) fish or max 2 medium (3-5cm) fish or max 1 large (>5cm) fish.

ONE SPECIES PER BAG. Eg: One bag of 10 neon tetra.

Electric Blue Acara (Andinoacara pulcher)

Description:

• Appearance:

  • Body: Medium-sized and robust with a slightly elongated, laterally compressed shape.
  • Color: Brilliant electric blue coloration with some fish displaying a shimmering effect. They may also have subtle green or turquoise highlights. The coloration is more intense in males.
  • Size: Typically grows to 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) in length, though they can occasionally reach up to 10 inches (25 cm) in larger tanks.

• Behavior:

  • Activity: Active and relatively peaceful. They are known for their engaging behavior and attractive coloration.
  • Social Structure: Generally peaceful but can be territorial, especially during breeding. They are best kept in pairs or small groups with other compatible species.

Care Requirements:

• Tank Size:

  • Minimum of 55 gallons (208 liters); larger tanks are preferred to provide ample space for swimming and reduce territorial disputes.

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C).
  • pH: 7.0-8.0.
  • Hardness: Moderately hard to hard water. They prefer slightly alkaline conditions with high mineral content.
  • Filtration: Strong filtration is essential to handle the high waste output. A filter with a high flow rate is suitable, but ensure the current is not too strong for the fish.

• Tank Setup:

  • Substrate: Sand or fine gravel is ideal. They may dig or shift the substrate.
  • Aquascaping: Include hiding spots and structures such as rocks, driftwood, and caves. Providing ample cover and territories is important to accommodate their territorial nature.
  • Lighting: Standard aquarium lighting is sufficient. They benefit from having shaded areas and hiding spots to reduce stress.

• Diet:

  • Primary Food: Omnivorous; feed a varied diet including high-quality cichlid pellets, flakes, and live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
  • Supplemental Food: Offer occasional treats like blanched vegetables (e.g., zucchini, spinach) to ensure a balanced diet.

• Behavioral Considerations:

  • Compatibility: Generally peaceful but can be territorial, especially during breeding. Best kept with other robust, non-aggressive fish or in a species-specific tank. Avoid keeping with smaller or less aggressive species.
  • Social Behavior: Prefer to be kept in pairs or small groups. Males can be territorial and may exhibit aggression towards other males, especially during breeding.

• Tank Maintenance:

  • Water Changes: Perform regular water changes (20-30% weekly) to maintain water quality and prevent the buildup of toxins.
  • Cleaning: Regularly clean the tank and remove any uneaten food or waste. Ensure the filtration system is functioning properly and provides adequate water circulation.

• Health Care:

  • Observation: Monitor for signs of stress or illness, such as changes in behavior, loss of appetite, or visible symptoms like discoloration or fin damage.
  • Treatment: Maintain optimal water conditions and consult an aquarium professional if any health issues arise. Address any signs of disease or stress promptly to ensure the health of your fish.