Family: Cichlidae
Distribution: Aequidens pulcher, or Blue Acara, are distributed in the standing waters and flowing streams of Central and South America, Trinidad and Venezuela.
PH: 6.5 – 8.0
Temperature: 18 – 23°C (64 – 73°F)
Hardness: 1 – 25 dH
Description: The Blue Acara, which can reach a large 16 cm in length, has a sparkling blue-gray base colouration and shiny, blue-green scales. Males have longer, more pointed fins than females; and this fish’s forehead is broader than other cichlids. The Blue Acara’s body may have 5 – 8 black stripes: these are not always visible. It is a particularly attractive, non-aggressive fish. It is often confused with the Green Terror – and for sometime was thought to be the same species – but the Blue Acara is not as aggressive and lacks the large hump on its head.
Diet: Aequidens pulcher is omnivorous and will love bloodworm, earthworms, frozen brine shrimp, flakes and insect larvae.
Breeding: The Blue Acara is easily bred; the female lays its eggs on rocks and will be very protective of its young. Both parents will guard the eggs and larvae until hatching. There are no special water requirements for breeding; this is a great fish for beginners. It will spawn easily and without provocation.
Comments: Provide this species with a large tank – around 35 gallons in volume – and decorate it with several hiding places, rocks and wood. The Blue Acara may eat dig out your plants so it might be worth adding a gravel substrate instead – it loves a tank bottom of fine sand. Make sure your tank has strong lighting and several open swimming areas for this species to flourish. It will need the occasional water change to maintain its health; its excrement can promote disease.
Article/Books:
Recommended Compatible Species: The Blue Acara is a peaceful – although quite territorial – cichlid that should be housed with species of a similar size. Suggested tank mates include Firemouths, Severum, Corydoras, Loricariids and other mild-mannered cichlids. It is best to house Blue Acara with similar-sized or larger species; they can be aggressive towards those smaller than them.
Originally posted 2010-01-26 10:47:31. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
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