Blue Acaras make great additions to the small or medium sized cichlid tank. Body color varies, but is generally a faded purple with stunning verticle bars of dark purple. Scales give off a blue irridescent sheen that is also present on the gill covers. The dorsal and anal fins may be edged in orange.

Tank Setup

Because of their digging habits, Blue Acaras should be provided with an aquarium containing a sandy substrate. Caves made with stacked rocks such as granit or slate are appreciated, as are plants which are generally left alone. As is with most cichlids, powerful filtration system is needed for the mess the fish make while shifting around in the substrate. A water change of 1\3 the tank every week is recommended.

Feeding

Blue Acaras need live or meaty foods in their diet. They will accept freeze-dried foods, pellets, flake foods and relish earthworms. Feed several times per day.

Water Chemistry

No special water requirements are needed to keep the Blue Acara in good health. A neutral to slightly alkaline pH is appreciated, as is a hardness below 25 dGH. As mentioned earlier, water frequent large water changes are beneficial.

Breeding

Like most Cichlids, the Blue Acara is fairly easy to spawn. They spawn on and around pre-cleaned flat rocks and make good parents. Eggs hatch in one to two days and young should be fed newly hatched Brine Shrimp. Sexing can be done by looking at the dorsal and anal fins; on males they are longer and more pointed.