Cichlid – Neon Blue Acara Cichlid Large 8-10cm

Neon Blue Acara Cichlid: A Peaceful and Stunning Aquarium Favourite

The Neon Blue Acara Cichlid (Andinoacara pulcher) is a vibrant freshwater fish prized for its electric blue colouration and peaceful temperament. Native to Central and South America, this cichlid is a stunning addition to community tanks, offering a dazzling display without the aggression typical of other cichlid species.

Size and Lifespan

Neon Blue Acara Cichlids grow to an average size of 12–15 cm, with males slightly larger than females. Under ideal conditions, they can live for 8–10 years, making them a long-term and rewarding choice for aquarists.

Tank Size and Requirements

A minimum tank size of 150 liters is recommended to provide ample swimming space for this active species. They thrive in water temperatures of 22°C–28°C with a pH range of 6.5–7.5. Include soft substrates, rocks, and driftwood to replicate their natural habitat, along with plenty of open swimming areas. Adding live plants can enhance the tank’s aesthetics, though robust species are recommended to prevent accidental damage.

Tank Mates

Neon Blue Acara Cichlids are peaceful compared to most cichlids, making them ideal for community tanks. Suitable tank mates include tetras, rasboras, gouramis, Corydoras, and other non-aggressive fish of similar size. Avoid housing them with overly aggressive species or very small fish that could be seen as prey.

Feeding Neon Blue Acara Cichlids

These omnivorous cichlids thrive on a varied diet. Offer high-quality cichlid pellets or flakes as a staple. Supplement their meals with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia, as well as vegetable matter such as blanched spinach or zucchini. A balanced diet ensures their vibrant colours and supports their long-term health.

Breeding Neon Blue Acara Cichlids

Breeding is relatively easy with this species. Males and females form monogamous pairs, preparing and cleaning a flat surface for spawning. Females lay eggs, which both parents guard until they hatch within 2–4 days. Fry become free-swimming after a week and can be fed baby brine shrimp or finely crushed flakes. A separate breeding tank helps improve fry survival rates and minimizes stress in community setups.

Sexing Neon Blue Acara Cichlids

Males are larger with longer, pointed fins, particularly the dorsal and anal fins. Females are slightly smaller with rounder bellies, especially during breeding periods. Observing size, fin shape, and behaviour helps differentiate the sexes.

FAQs

How big do Neon Blue Acara Cichlids get?
They grow to 12–15 cm, with males being slightly larger than females.

Are they aggressive?
They are relatively peaceful, especially compared to other cichlids, though they may show territorial behaviour during breeding.

What tank mates are suitable?
Tetras, rasboras, gouramis, and Corydoras are ideal companions. Avoid aggressive or very small species.

What do they eat?
They thrive on high-quality cichlid pellets, live or frozen protein, and vegetables like zucchini or spinach.

How do you breed Neon Blue Acara Cichlids?
Provide a flat surface for spawning. Both parents guard the eggs, which hatch in 2–4 days, with fry becoming free-swimming in a week.

How can you tell males and females apart?
Males are larger with pointed fins, while females are smaller with rounder bellies during breeding.

Species Overview

• Species: Andinoacara pulcher
• Common Name: Neon Blue Acara Cichlid
• Origin: Central and South America
• Diet: Omnivore
• PH Range: 6.5–7.5
• Temperature: 22°C–28°C
• Max Size: Up to 15 cm
• Tank Size: Minimum 150 liters