Electric Blue Acara

The Electric Blue Acara (Andinoacara pulcher hybrid) is a stunning, hardy, and uncommonly peaceful South American cichlid. Prized for their glowing sapphire-blue scales and easygoing temperament, they make an excellent centerpiece fish for medium-to-large community aquariums.

Quick Facts

• Size: 13 to 18 cm (5 to 7 inches)
• Lifespan: Up to 10 years
• Temperament: Peaceful for a cichlid, but may eat very small fish or become territorial while breeding
• Diet: Omnivore (eats high-quality cichlid pellets, flakes, and frozen foods like brine shrimp)
• Minimum Tank Size: 150+ Litres (40+ gallons) for a single specimen or pair

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F)
• pH Level: 6.0 to 8.0
• Water Hardness: 6 to 20 dGH

Tank Setup & Care

Electric Blue Acaras appreciate structured environments that mimic their native slow-moving rivers.

• Hardscape: Provide sandy substrates, smooth rocks, driftwood, and caves for shelter.
• Plants: They generally ignore live plants, but because they are cichlids, they have a habit of digging in the substrate. Use hardy plants (like Anubias or Java Fern) or anchor plants securely to hardscapes.

Compatibility

They are among the most community-friendly cichlids, making them great companions for larger tetras, rainbowfish, angelfish, Severums, and peaceful bottom dwellers.

Important Notes:

• Always avoid keeping them with fish small enough to fit in their mouths (such as small Neon Tetras or Endlers).
• Use caution if housing them with aggressive, larger cichlids like Oscars or Jack Dempseys.

Breeding

Unlike many cichlids, Electric Blue Acaras are devoted parents that will fiercely protect their eggs and fry.

• They typically spawn on flat stones or inside cleared-out caves.
• They can be prolific breeders, laying up to 1,000 eggs at a time, making them a fascinating species to observe during the breeding season.