Blue Acara Cichlid      Aequidens pulcher

Grows to: 5"

Hobbyist Level:  A hardy fish suitable for beginners.  An interesting Cichlid that does not grow too large.  Very hardy.  They are relatively easy to breed.  They do not dig or damage plants.

How Many?  Should be kept in pairs, or groups larger than three.

Housing:   (Temperature- 64-78),  (pH 6.5-8)

Tank mates:  Can be aggressive toward smaller fish and should not be kept in a typical community tank.  They can be kept with other similar size Cichlids such as Jack Dempseys and Firemouths. They often get along with similar size barbs, sharks, and catfish.   If you want to breed them purchase at least 6 small ones an let them grow up together.  Remove the other Cichlids once a pair begins to spawn.

Feeding:  Feeds on worms, crustaceans, insects.   Feed cichlid flakes and pellets, blood worms, brine shrimp, daphnia.

Natural Habitat:  Central and South America.  Inhabits turbid standing waters as well as clear free flowing streams.

Males and Females:  Males are more colorful and larger than females.