Uaru Care Guide: Tank Size, Diet & Tankmates
The Uaru (Uaru amphiacanthoides), often called the Waroo or Triangle Cichlid, is a gentle giant of the South American cichlid world. With its distinctive dark triangular blotch, soft earthy coloration, and a surprisingly peaceful temperament for its size, the Uaru makes a captivating centerpiece for a large, well-planted aquarium. Intelligent and personable, these fish quickly learn to recognize their keepers, which makes them a rewarding project for the dedicated hobbyist. We stock Uaru cichlids here at Tropical Treasures alongside our wider range of South American cichlids. Stock rotates, so if you do not see them listed just message us and we will let you know what is swimming.
Meet the Uaru
Uarus are native to the soft, warm, blackwater rivers of the Amazon basin in South America. They are a large cichlid, reaching roughly 10–12 inches in a spacious aquarium, and can live 8–10 years or more with good care. Juveniles wear a mottled brown-and-cream pattern that matures into the smoother adult coloration with its signature triangular flank marking. They share the bold presence of an Oscar while staying notably calmer, and they pair well thematically with other large South American cichlids such as the Gurupi cichlid.
Tank Size and Setup
Uarus need room to grow. Plan for a minimum of 75 gallons for a single adult, and considerably larger for a group or community. They appreciate a layout with open swimming space, smooth driftwood, rounded rockwork, and a soft substrate. Strong, reliable filtration is essential because of their size and appetite. Uarus do graze on tender greenery, so use sturdy live plants or accept that some may become a snack. For perspective on housing a large cichlid, our Oscar tank size guide is a helpful companion read.
Water Parameters and Temperature
Uarus thrive in soft, slightly acidic, warm water that mirrors their blackwater home. Aim for a temperature of 78–86°F, a pH of 5.0–7.0, and pristine, well-filtered conditions. They are sensitive to poor water quality, so generous water changes and strong biological filtration go a long way. A buffer such as Seachem Discus Buffer can help maintain stable soft-water parameters. Always acclimate new arrivals slowly.
Feeding Your Uaru
Uarus are omnivores with a notably plant-forward appetite, so variety is key. Offer a quality cichlid pellet or a high-protein slow-sinking cichlid pellet as a staple, and supplement generously with blanched vegetables, spirulina, and the occasional frozen or live treat. Plenty of vegetable matter helps keep their digestion healthy. Browse our full range of freshwater fish food to keep yours in top condition.
Tankmates and Temperament
For a large cichlid, the Uaru is remarkably peaceful, though it does best with calm, similarly sized companions rather than aggressive or tiny fish. They are often kept in groups, which suits their social nature, but they can become territorial when breeding. Suitable tankmates can include other gentle large cichlids and robust schoolers. If you enjoy peaceful cichlids, you may also like the keyhole cichlid and the festivum. For more centerpiece ideas, browse our South American cichlids collection.
Is the Uaru Right for You?
If you have the space for a large tank and want an intelligent, interactive, and unusually peaceful centerpiece cichlid, the Uaru is a wonderful and somewhat under-appreciated choice. They reward keepers who provide pristine soft water, a varied plant-forward diet, and room to grow. If you are weighing other big South American cichlids, our severum care guide and geophagus care guide are great next reads.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big do Uarus get? Uarus typically reach about 10–12 inches in a large aquarium, so a spacious tank of 75 gallons or more with strong filtration is important.
Are Uarus aggressive? They are one of the more peaceful large South American cichlids. They do best with calm, similarly sized tankmates and can become territorial when breeding.
Are Uarus good for beginners? They are best suited to keepers with some experience, mainly because of their size, their need for pristine soft water, and their appetite. With a large, well-maintained tank, they are very rewarding.