{"product_id":"blue-acara-cichlid-andinoacara-pulcher","title":"Blue Acara Cichlid – Andinoacara pulcher","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eBlue Acara Cichlid\u003c\/strong\u003e (\u003cem\u003eAndinoacara pulcher\u003c\/em\u003e) is a beautiful freshwater cichlid known for its shimmering blue-green coloration, peaceful personality relative to many other cichlids, and engaging behavior.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNative to parts of northern South America and Trinidad, the Blue Acara is a hardy and adaptable species that works well in larger community aquariums with appropriately sized tankmates. Adults can reach around 6 inches and appreciate plenty of swimming room, caves, driftwood, and open areas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eKey Features\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAttractive blue-green iridescent coloration\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRelatively peaceful for a medium-sized cichlid\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntelligent and interactive aquarium fish\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCan be kept singly or as a compatible pair\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSuitable for larger community aquariums\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHardy and adaptable to a range of water conditions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSubstrate-spawning cichlid\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBoth parents may guard eggs and fry\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFish Information\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCommon Name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Blue Acara\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eScientific Name:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem\u003eAndinoacara pulcher\u003c\/em\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFamily:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cichlidae\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin:\u003c\/strong\u003e Northern South America and Trinidad\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWater Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e Freshwater\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTemperament:\u003c\/strong\u003e Semi-aggressive \/ relatively peaceful for a cichlid\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAdult Size:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 5–6 inches\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSwimming Level:\u003c\/strong\u003e Middle to lower levels\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDiet:\u003c\/strong\u003e Omnivore with a strong carnivorous component\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCare Level:\u003c\/strong\u003e Easy to moderate\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eColor and Appearance\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBlue Acaras typically display a blue, turquoise, or blue-green sheen across the body and face. Dark vertical markings may be visible along the body, while the fins often develop attractive blue edging and iridescent highlights.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMature males are often more colorful and may develop slightly longer, more pointed dorsal and anal fins.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAdult Size\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBlue Acaras generally reach around \u003cstrong\u003e5–6 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e as adults. FishBase lists a maximum total length of approximately 16 cm, or a little over 6 inches.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eRecommended Aquarium Size\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA \u003cstrong\u003e40-gallon breeder or larger\u003c\/strong\u003e is a practical minimum for a single adult Blue Acara.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor a pair, we recommend approximately \u003cstrong\u003e55 gallons or larger\u003c\/strong\u003e, especially if the aquarium contains additional tankmates.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMore space is always beneficial because Blue Acaras may establish territories, particularly when breeding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eRecommended Water Parameters\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 72–82°F\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003epH:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 6.5–8.0\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWater Hardness:\u003c\/strong\u003e Soft to moderately hard, with considerable adaptability\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAmmonia:\u003c\/strong\u003e 0 ppm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNitrite:\u003c\/strong\u003e 0 ppm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNitrate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Kept low through regular maintenance\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStable water quality is especially important. Blue Acaras may tolerate a relatively broad range of water chemistry, but deteriorating water quality can cause stress and health problems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAquarium Setup\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBlue Acaras appreciate an aquarium with both open swimming room and defined territories.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse a fully cycled freshwater aquarium\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eProvide strong biological filtration\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse a sand or smooth gravel substrate\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdd driftwood and rockwork\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eProvide caves and sheltered areas\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLeave open swimming space\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMaintain good oxygenation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePerform regular partial water changes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBlue Acaras may dig in the substrate, especially when breeding. Rooted plants may be disturbed, while plants attached to décor, such as Anubias and Java fern, are often more practical choices.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFeeding\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBlue Acaras are omnivorous but naturally consume a substantial amount of animal-based food.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA varied diet may include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHigh-quality cichlid pellets\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eQuality sinking or slow-sinking pellets\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFrozen brine shrimp\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFrozen mysis shrimp\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBloodworms as a supplemental food\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKrill\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eChopped shrimp\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOccasional vegetable-based foods\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFeed appropriately sized portions once or twice daily and avoid overfeeding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eTemperament\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBlue Acaras are generally considered one of the more peaceful medium-sized cichlids.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThey can often be kept with other similarly sized, peaceful or moderately assertive fish. However, like most cichlids, they may become territorial when establishing a pair or guarding eggs and fry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCompatible Tankmates\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePotential tankmates may include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMedium-sized tetras\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRainbowfish\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePeaceful barbs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLarger Corydoras species\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlecos\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOther peaceful South American cichlids\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOther similarly sized community fish\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvoid very small fish that may eventually be viewed as prey, as well as highly aggressive cichlids that may bully the Blue Acara.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCan Blue Acaras Live With Other Cichlids?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, but compatibility depends on aquarium size, individual temperament, and the species involved.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBlue Acaras generally do better with comparatively peaceful cichlids than with highly aggressive species.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eBreeding\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBlue Acaras are substrate-spawning cichlids and can breed readily in captivity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA bonded pair may choose a flat rock, broad surface, or cleared area of substrate for spawning. Both parents typically participate in protecting the eggs and fry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDuring breeding, the pair may become significantly more territorial toward other aquarium inhabitants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eMale vs. Female\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMature males are often somewhat larger and more intensely colored, with slightly more pointed dorsal and anal fins.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFemales are generally rounder-bodied and may have shorter, more rounded fins.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSexing young Blue Acaras can be difficult until they mature.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePlants and Aquascaping\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBlue Acaras can be kept in planted aquariums, but they may dig and rearrange substrate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGood plant choices include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAnubias attached to driftwood or rock\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eJava fern\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBolbitis\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFloating plants\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOther hardy plants secured to décor\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRooted plants may need protection, especially around a breeding pair.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eImportant Care Notes\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eProvide adequate aquarium space.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMaintain strong biological filtration.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKeep ammonia and nitrite at 0 ppm.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePerform consistent water changes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eProvide hiding places and territorial boundaries.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExpect increased territorial behavior during breeding.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAvoid keeping with fish small enough to be swallowed.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNever release aquarium fish into local waterways.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow large do Blue Acaras get?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThey generally reach around 5–6 inches as adults.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAre Blue Acaras aggressive?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThey are relatively peaceful compared with many cichlids, but they can become territorial, especially when breeding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat size aquarium does a Blue Acara need?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA 40-gallon breeder or larger is a practical minimum for one adult, while 55 gallons or more is preferred for a pair or community setup.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan Blue Acaras live in a community aquarium?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eYes. They can work well with appropriately sized, peaceful tankmates in a sufficiently large aquarium.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDo Blue Acaras eat small fish?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThey may eat fish small enough to fit in their mouths, so very small tankmates are not recommended.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAre Blue Acaras easy to breed?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThey are one of the easier medium-sized cichlids to breed once a compatible pair forms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDo Blue Acaras care for their babies?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eYes. Both parents commonly guard the eggs and fry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAre Blue Acaras good beginner cichlids?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eYes. Their manageable adult size, relatively peaceful temperament, and adaptability make them a good introduction to medium-sized cichlids when proper aquarium space and filtration are provided.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAvailable at Tropical Treasures Wyo\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBlue Acara Cichlids are available at \u003cstrong\u003eTropical Treasures Wyo\u003c\/strong\u003e in Cheyenne, Wyoming, when in stock.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLive fish are available for \u003cstrong\u003ein-store purchase or local pickup only\u003c\/strong\u003e and are not available for shipping.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tropical Treasures Wyo LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54843062649045,"sku":null,"price":15.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"url":"https:\/\/tropicaltreasureswyo.com\/products\/blue-acara-cichlid-andinoacara-pulcher","provider":"Tropical Treasures Wyo LLC","version":"1.0","type":"link"}