Electric Blue Acara (Andinoacara pulcher)

The Electric Blue Acara is a captive-developed strain of extraordinary colouration, believed to be a selectively bred or hybrid form related to Andinoacara pulcher (Blue Acara) or Andinoacara rivulatus (Green Terror). In this form, the already attractive iridescent blue-green colouration of the standard Blue Acara has been intensified to a uniform, saturated electric blue that covers virtually the entire body and fins — creating one of the most vivid, uniformly blue freshwater fish available.

The colour is genuinely spectacular — adult specimens in prime condition display an almost metallic electric blue sheen that appears to glow under aquarium lighting. Orange to red scaling on the belly, orange-red fin margins, and subtle pattern elements provide contrast against the blue body.

The Electric Blue Acara grows to approximately 15–17 cm and shares the relatively peaceful temperament of the standard Blue Acara — making it one of the most manageable, community-compatible medium cichlids available. It is considerably less aggressive than most medium-large cichlids.

Like standard Acaras, the Electric Blue Acara is an open substrate spawner — pairs will dig and spawn on flat stones or in substrate depressions, guarding eggs and fry co-operatively. The breeding behaviour is fascinating to observe and the parental care is dedicated.

Tank Setup: A minimum 150-litre aquarium for a pair. Sandy substrate for digging, flat stones as spawning sites, robust plants or artificial plants (they may uproot plants during spawning), driftwood, and caves. Excellent filtration — cichlids have significant bioloads. Good water movement.

Water Parameters: Temperature 22–28°C; pH 6.5–8.0; GH 6–20 °dH; KH 4–12 °dH. Adaptable and suitable for moderately hard Belgian tap water. Avoid very soft, very acidic conditions.

Feeding: Omnivore. Quality cichlid pellets, frozen shrimp, earthworms, bloodworm, and occasional blanched vegetables. Feed two to three times daily. A varied diet maintains the vivid blue colouration.

Tank Mates: Compatible with similarly sized robust community fish: large tetras, barbs, corydoras, loaches, rainbowfish, and peaceful medium cichlids. Avoid very small fish that may be eaten as adults grow, and very aggressive cichlids that will overwhelm the relatively docile EBA.

Behaviour: Relatively peaceful for a medium cichlid. Pairs bond and defend spawning territory during breeding. Outside breeding periods, generally compatible with community fish. Males may be aggressive toward rival males.

Health: Hardy and long-lived. Susceptible to Hole-in-the-Head (HITH) disease from poor water quality and nitrate accumulation. Regular 25–30% water changes and varied diet prevent most issues.