Electric Blue Acaras - 4.5cm

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Aequidens pulcher sp.
• Common Name: Electric Blue Acara
• Adult Size: 6–7 inches (15–18 cm)
• Life Expectancy: 8–10 years
• Habitat:
  • Native to Central and South America, particularly Venezuela and Trinidad

  • Typically found in slow-moving rivers, streams, and floodplains with sandy substrates and vegetation

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons (113 liters) for a single fish
  50+ gallons for a pair or community
• Ideal Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
• pH Range: 6.5–7.5
• Water Hardness: 3–20 dGH (fairly adaptable)

• Temperament: Peaceful to semi-aggressive
  Can be kept in a community tank with similarly sized non-aggressive fish
  More peaceful than most other cichlids

Diet & Nutrition

• Omnivorous
• Diet should include:
  • High-quality pellets or flakes
  • Frozen/live foods: bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia
  • Vegetables: blanched peas, spinach, or zucchini

• Feed 1–2 times daily

Breeding & Spawning

• Pair-bonding substrate spawners
• Lay eggs on flat surfaces (rocks, leaves, or tank glass)
• Both parents guard eggs and fry
• Eggs hatch in 2–3 days, fry are free-swimming in a week

• Condition with high-protein foods to encourage breeding

Appearance

• Vibrant electric blue coloration across the entire body
• Slight gold or green shimmer under the right lighting
• Rounded fins with occasional red edges

• Deep-bodied shape with graceful, slow swimming movements

Distinctive Features

• Known for their brilliant electric blue color
• Peaceful temperament compared to many cichlids
• Ideal for planted tanks or peaceful community setups

• Often recommended as a beginner-friendly cichlid