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Fish Profiles | Electric Blue Acara (Andinoacara pulcher)
Electric Blue Acara (Andinoacara pulcher): The Shimmering Star of Freshwater Aquariums
If you're looking for a freshwater fish that combines dazzling beauty with a peaceful temperament, the Electric Blue Acara (Andinoacara pulcher) might just be your perfect aquatic companion. With its iridescent blue sheen and graceful movements, this cichlid is a favorite among aquarists of all levels.
Quick Profile
| Trait | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Andinoacara pulcher |
| Common Name | Electric Blue Acara |
| Origin | South America (Venezuela to Trinidad) |
| Adult Size | 6–8 inches (15–20 cm) |
| Lifespan | 8–10 years |
| Temperament | Peaceful (for a cichlid!) |
| Tank Size | Minimum 30 gallons (114 liters) |
| Water Parameters | 72–82°F (22–28°C), pH 6.5–7.5 |
| Diet | Omnivorous |
| Care Level | Easy to Moderate |
Appearance
The Electric Blue Acara lives up to its name with a vibrant, metallic blue body that glows under aquarium lighting. Unlike many cichlids, its coloration is consistent across individuals and doesn’t fade with age or stress. Subtle hints of yellow on the fins and a slightly darker dorsal stripe add to its visual appeal.
Personality & Behavior
Despite being a cichlid, the Electric Blue Acara is surprisingly mellow. It’s known for:
- 🫱 Being community-friendly (with similarly sized, non-aggressive tankmates)
- 🧹 Digging in substrate and rearranging decor (mildly destructive but endearing)
- 💃 Displaying courtship dances and parental care during breeding
They’re intelligent and interactive, often recognizing their owners and following them around the tank.
Tank Setup Tips
To keep your Electric Blue Acara happy and healthy:
- 🪵 Provide hiding spots with driftwood, rocks, and caves
- 🌿 Use hardy plants like Java fern or Anubias (they may uproot delicate ones)
- 💧 Maintain excellent water quality with regular water changes
- 🚫 Avoid housing with aggressive or very small fish (they may nip or be eaten)
Diet & Feeding
Electric Blue Acaras are omnivores with a hearty appetite. Offer a varied diet:
- High-quality cichlid pellets or flakes
- Frozen or live foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia
- Occasional vegetables like blanched spinach or zucchini
Feed 1–2 times daily in portions they can consume within a few minutes.
Breeding Behavior
Breeding Electric Blue Acara is relatively straightforward:
- They form monogamous pairs and lay eggs on flat surfaces
- Both parents guard the eggs and fry diligently
- Fry can be fed baby brine shrimp or crushed flakes
A separate breeding tank is ideal to protect the young from other tankmates.
Fun Fact
The Electric Blue Acara is a selectively bred color morph of the standard Blue Acara. While the wild type has more muted tones, the electric variant was developed for its intense coloration—without sacrificing the species’ gentle nature.
Final Thoughts
The Electric Blue Acara is a stunning, low-maintenance fish that brings both color and character to any freshwater setup. Whether you're a beginner looking for a showstopper or an experienced aquarist seeking a peaceful cichlid, this shimmering beauty is a brilliant choice.
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Photo credit(s): Canva Pro Licence
