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Blue Acara (Andinoacara Pulcher)

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Scientific Name: Andinoacara Pulcher
Common Names: Blue Acara, Electric Blue Acara, Andinoacara
Temperament: Peaceful
Care Level: Moderate
Life Span: 8 to 10 years

Blue Acara (Andinoacara pulcher) in focus

Species Overview and Background:

  • The Blue Acara (Andinoacara Pulcher) was first discovered in South America in the mid-19th century. Its natural distribution includes countries such as Venezuela, Trinidad, and Guyana. They are primarily found in freshwater rivers and streams in these regions.
  • In their natural habitat, Blue Acaras are known to form small groups or pairs. They are territorial but generally peaceful, especially compared to some other cichlid species. They actively feed on small invertebrates, insects, and plant matter found in their environment.
  • Blue Acaras were introduced in the aquarium hobby in the 1970s and have gained popularity due to their stunning coloration and peaceful nature. They have become famous among hobbyists who appreciate their vibrant blue colour and their ability to coexist with other peaceful fish species.
  • While Blue Acaras are not as common as some other aquarium fish, they are still widely available in the hobby. They can be found in many fish stores and online retailers.
  • The ideal minimum group size for Blue Acaras is a pair. They can be kept in a tank with a capacity of at least 75 litres (20 gallons) to provide sufficient space for their territorial behaviours.
  • Blue Acaras are not a hybrid or cross of other species. They are a distinct species within the cichlid family, and the first specimens were collected and bred in captivity by early aquarists.

General Water Parameters:

  • pH Range: 6.5 to 7.5
  • Temperature Range: 24°C to 28°C (75°F to 82°F)
  • GH Range: 4 to 10
  • KH Range: 2 to 6
  • TDS Range: 150 to 250 ppm

Colour & Appearance:

  • Blue Acaras have a distinctive appearance with a deep blue coloration that covers their body. They also have yellow markings on their gill covers and the base of their fins. The intensity of their blue colour can vary among individuals, with some displaying more vibrant hues than others. They have a laterally compressed body and a slightly concave head profile.
  • The size of Blue Acaras can range from 10 to 15 centimetres (4 to 6 inches) in length. Males are typically larger and develop elongated fins as they mature. Females tend to have a rounder body shape and shorter fins.

Care and Requirements:

  • Blue Acaras are moderately demanding in terms of care. They require a stable and well-maintained aquarium environment.
  • They are omnivorous and will accept a variety of foods, including high-quality pellets, flakes, and frozen or live foods. It is recommended to provide a balanced diet consisting of both protein-rich and plant-based foods.
  • Blue Acaras are generally hardy and can tolerate a range of water conditions. However, it is important to maintain good water quality by performing regular water changes and monitoring the parameters.
  • They are diurnal fish, meaning they are active during the day. While they may spend some time hiding among plants or decorations, they are generally out in the open and explore their surroundings.
  • Providing hiding places in the form of caves, plants, and driftwood is beneficial for Blue Acaras, as it allows them to establish territories and feel secure in their environment.

Diet:

Blue Acaras are omnivorous and have a diverse diet in nature. In the aquarium, they can be fed a combination of dry and frozen foods. A high-quality cichlid pellet or flake can serve as a staple diet. Supplement their diet with frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia, and small insects. Including some plant matter like blanched spinach or spirulina-based foods is also beneficial.

Blue Acaras may exhibit a feeding behaviour known as "picking." They tend to pick at the substrate and sift through it in search of small organisms and food particles. This behaviour is natural for them and helps mimic their foraging habits in the wild. Providing a sandy or fine gravel substrate allows them to engage in this behaviour.

Tank Setup:

  • Blue Acaras prefer a tank setup that resembles their natural habitat. A minimum tank size of 75 litres (20 gallons) is suitable for a pair of Blue Acaras. However, a larger tank of 150 litres (40 gallons) or more provides more swimming space and allows for the addition of compatible tank mates.
  • The tank should have a mix of open swimming areas and hiding places. Adding rocks, driftwood, and plants like Amazon swords, Java ferns, and Vallisneria can create a natural-looking environment and provide hiding spots for the fish.
  • Blue Acaras are comfortable in water with a gentle to moderate flow. A filtration system that provides adequate water movement and maintains good water quality is essential. They can tolerate a range of pH and hardness levels, but it is important to maintain stability in these parameters.

Compatible Tankmates:

  • Blue Acaras can coexist with a variety of peaceful community fish. Good tankmates include tetras (such as neon tetras, cardinal tetras, and rummy nose tetras), peaceful cichlids (such as angelfish and keyhole cichlids), small catfish (such as Corydoras species), and peaceful bottom-dwelling fish (such as bristlenose plecos).
  • Avoid keeping them with aggressive or fin-nipping species, as Blue Acaras can become stressed, or their fins may be damaged. It is also best to avoid keeping them with other cichlid species that have similar territorial behaviours.

Sexing:

  • Sexing Blue Acaras can be challenging when they are young. As they mature, males tend to be larger and develop longer fins. Females have a rounder body shape and shorter fins. The most reliable method of sexing is by observing their behaviour during breeding. Males display more vibrant coloration and become more territorial during this time.

Breeding:

  • Blue Acaras can be bred successfully in a hobbyist's aquarium. To encourage breeding, provide them with appropriate tank conditions and a suitable spawning site. A pair of Blue Acaras will establish a territory and may dig a pit in the substrate as a nesting site.
  • The water temperature should be slightly increased to around 28°C (82°F) to stimulate breeding behaviour. Provide a flat rock or a piece of slate tilted at an angle as a potential spawning site.
  • The male will court the female, displaying vibrant colours and performing courtship rituals. After successful courtship, the female will lay eggs on the spawning site, and the male will fertilize them. The parents will guard the eggs and fry.
  • It is recommended to separate the breeding pair from other tankmates during this time to prevent aggression and ensure the safety of the fry. The fry can be fed finely crushed flake food or baby brine shrimp.
  • Blue Acaras are attentive parents and will care for their young until they are able to fend for themselves.

Additional Considerations:

When introducing Blue Acaras to a new aquarium, it is important to acclimate them slowly to avoid stress. Floating the bag in the tank for 15-20 minutes to equalize the temperature is recommended. Then, gradually add small amounts of aquarium water to the bag over a period of time before releasing the fish into the tank.

  • Blue Acaras are generally peaceful but may become territorial during breeding or when establishing their territory. It is essential to provide adequate space and hiding spots to minimize aggression. Monitor their behaviour and intervene if necessary to prevent any significant conflicts. It is advisable to keep Blue Acaras in pairs or small groups. While they can be kept individually, they tend to exhibit more natural behaviours and thrive when they have a companion. However, avoid keeping multiple males together as they may become aggressive towards each other.
  • Regular water maintenance is crucial for the health and well-being of Blue Acaras. Perform weekly water changes of 20-30% to maintain water quality and remove any accumulated waste or toxins. Test the water parameters regularly to ensure they are within the appropriate range.
  • Blue Acaras are generally not prone to specific diseases, but they can be susceptible to common aquarium ailments such as ich, fin rot, and bacterial infections. Maintain good water quality, provide a balanced diet, and observe them closely to detect any signs of illness. If necessary, consult a veterinarian with experience in fish health.
  • When selecting Blue Acaras, choose healthy individuals that exhibit vibrant coloration, clear eyes, and no signs of damage or disease. Avoid purchasing fish from overcrowded or poorly maintained tanks, as they may be more prone to stress and illness.
  • Always remember to research and consider the adult size and requirements of Blue Acaras before adding them to your aquarium. Provide adequate space and a suitable environment to accommodate their growth.

In conclusion, the Blue Acara (Andinoacara Pulcher) is a stunning and relatively peaceful cichlid species that can make a captivating addition to a well-maintained aquarium. With proper care, suitable tank conditions, and compatible tankmates, they can thrive and display their beautiful coloration. Understanding their natural habitat, dietary needs, breeding behaviours, and ideal tank setup will contribute to their overall well-being and ensure a rewarding experience for aquarium keepers.