Electric Blue Acara (Andinoacara pulcher)

Description

Species Background

The Electric Blue Acara is a selectively bred color morph of Andinoacara pulcher, a South and Central American cichlid native to slow-moving rivers and calm lagoons. Wild specimens display more subdued blue-gray tones, but decades of careful tank breeding have intensified the metallic turquoise and electric coloration seen in modern aquarium lines.

This is not a hybrid. It is a true A. pulcher lineage refined through selective breeding, preserving the species’ natural temperament while enhancing coloration.

Behavior and Temperament

Electric Blue Acaras are often described as the gentle souls of the cichlid world. They are social, curious, and noticeably aware of their surroundings, frequently interacting with their keeper in a calm, inquisitive manner.

They exhibit the confidence typical of cichlids without the destructive behaviors commonly associated with the group. Unlike many medium-sized cichlids, they do not dig excessively, uproot plants, or aggressively patrol territory.

They are one of the few medium cichlids that integrate naturally into planted aquariums because they
• Do not bulldoze substrate
• Do not shred or uproot plants
• Do not rearrange aquascapes
• Do not harass peaceful tankmates

They share the relaxed presence of earth-eaters, without the constant trenching.

Adult Size

• Males typically reach 5.5 to 6 inches
• Females usually reach 4 to 5 inches

They mature into thick-bodied, expressive adults and retain their electric coloration throughout life.

Water Parameters

Electric Blue Acaras are adaptable and forgiving as long as water quality is clean and stable.

Temperature: 74 to 82°F
pH: 6.4 to 7.8
GH: 4 to 18
KH: 2 to 10

Tank-bred lines tolerate moderately hard water well, making them compatible with most tap-water systems.

Diet

Electric Blue Acaras are enthusiastic omnivores and thrive on dietary variety.

They do best with
• Quality sinking or slow-sinking pellets
• Frozen foods
• Occasional live foods
• Supplemental vegetable or spirulina-based foods

A varied diet supports color intensity, body condition, and long-term health.

Tank Requirements

• Minimum 40 gallons for a single fish or pair
• 55 gallons or larger for community setups
• Sand or fine gravel substrate preferred
• Driftwood, plants, and open swimming space recommended

They typically do not redecorate or uproot plants, allowing aquascapes to remain intact.

Tankmates

Electric Blue Acaras are compatible with a wide range of peaceful and semi-peaceful species.

Compatible tankmates include
• Peaceful cichlids
• Earth-eaters
• Rainbowfish
• Larger tetras
• Livebearers such as mollies and swordtails
• Peaceful catfish
• Calm barbs

Avoid aggressive Central American cichlids, persistent fin-nippers, and very small nano species that may be viewed as food.

Why They’re Popular

Electric Blue Acaras strike a rare balance in the aquarium hobby. They are large enough to feel like a true centerpiece fish, yet calm enough to coexist in planted community tanks.

They are valued because they are
• Visually striking everyday
• Calm and predictable in behavior
• Hardy and adaptable
• Interactive without being aggressive
• Suitable for planted aquariums

They are often the fish that draws attention first, even in a well-stocked tank.

Available Sizes

• Small to Medium: young, actively growing individuals
• Large: fully colored adults suitable for centerpiece roles