Electric Blue Acara Care Guide
The Electric Blue Acara (Andinoacara pulcher "Electric Blue") is a vibrant and peaceful freshwater cichlid popular among UK aquarists. Known for its intense iridescent blue coloration and relatively calm temperament, it's a favourite for colourful community cichlid aquariums.
In this guide, you'll learn everything you need to know about Electric Blue Acara care, including tank size, water conditions, compatibility, feeding, and typical UK prices - plus how to buy or sell them locally.
Quick facts about Electric Blue Acaras
Electric Blue Acaras are a selectively bred colour variant of the blue acara. They are known for their metallic electric-blue scales and peaceful behaviour compared to many other cichlid species.
They are hardy, active, and suitable for mixed tropical aquariums.
Andinoacara pulcher ("Electric Blue" variant)
15-20 cm
South America (original species)
200L (55gal)
8-10 years
Peaceful to semi-aggressive
24-28°C
Omnivore (pellets, frozen, live foods)
6.5-7.5
£15-£40 per fish
How Many Electric Blue Acaras Should You Keep?
Electric Blue Acaras are best kept singly, as a pair, or in carefully planned groups.
- A single fish works well in community tanks
- Pairs can be kept in larger aquariums
- Provide enough space and territories if keeping multiple fish
- During breeding, they may become territorial.
Keeping too many in smaller tanks can lead to:
- Aggression and chasing
- Stress
- Territorial disputes
Ideal Tank Conditions for Electric Blue Acaras
Providing the right environment helps them display strong colours and natural behaviour.
- Tank Setup: Spacious tropical aquarium with open swimming space
- Substrate: Sand or smooth gravel
- Plants & Decor: Driftwood, rocks, caves, and hardy plants
- Water Conditions: Stable, clean freshwater
- Filtration & Flow: Moderate filtration with gentle to moderate flow
- Lighting: Moderate lighting
They appreciate a balance of open areas and sheltered territories.
Compatibility with Other Fish
Electric Blue Acaras are among the more peaceful medium-sized cichlids.
- Good Tankmates: rainbowfish, larger tetras, peaceful catfish, silver dollars, gouramis, and other calm cichlids
- Avoid: very small fish, highly aggressive cichlids, and fin-nippers
They generally do well in larger peaceful community setups.
Are Electric Blue Acaras Easy to Care For?
Electric Blue Acaras are easy to moderately easy to care for and suitable for most aquarists.
They require:
- Stable water quality
- A spacious tank
- A varied diet
- Suitable tankmates
They are hardy and adaptable when properly maintained.
Electric Blue Acara Price in the UK
In the UK, Electric Blue Acaras typically cost between £15-£40 per fish.
Prices vary depending on:
- Size and colour quality
- Availability
- Shop vs hobbyist sellers
Well-coloured adult specimens may cost more.
Where to Buy Electric Blue Acaras in the UK
Electric Blue Acaras are widely available in UK aquarium shops and from hobbyist breeders.
Sourcing fish locally can:
- Reduce transport stress
- Allow you to assess colour and health
- Offer better value
TankMate UK helps connect fishkeepers who want to buy, sell, or rehome fish safely - without shipping.
Can You Sell Electric Blue Acaras?
Yes - Electric Blue Acaras are commonly bred and sold by hobbyists.
Selling locally is often the best option, as it:
- Minimises stress for the fish
- Avoids the risks of shipping
- Connects you with responsible aquarists
TankMate UK allows you to list fish quickly and find local buyers.
Feeding Electric Blue Acaras
Electric Blue Acaras are omnivorous and easy to feed.
Key Tips:
- Feed high-quality cichlid pellets
- Supplement with frozen foods such as bloodworms and brine shrimp
- Include occasional vegetable matter
- Feed small portions 1-2 times daily
- A varied diet helps maintain vibrant colouration.
Common Problems with Electric Blue Acaras
Faded colours, often caused by:
- Poor diet
- Stress
- Poor water quality
Territorial aggression, linked to:
- Breeding behaviour
- Insufficient space
Stress, caused by:
- Aggressive tankmates
- Poor aquarium setup
Why Electric Blue Acaras Are So Popular
- Brilliant electric-blue coloration
- Peaceful compared to many cichlids
- Suitable for larger community tanks
- Hardy and beginner-friendly
- Active and personable behaviour
When kept correctly, Electric Blue Acaras become eye-catching centrepiece fish full of colour and personality.
Frequently Asked Questions
They are relatively peaceful for cichlids, though territorial during breeding.
Yes, with appropriately sized peaceful fish.
Typically 15-20 cm in captivity.
At least 200 litres, with more space preferred for pairs.
Looking to Buy or Sell Electric Blue Acaras Locally?
TankMate UK connects fishkeepers who want to buy, sell, or rehome fish safely within their local area.
Whether you're adding colourful cichlids to your aquarium or passing fish on to a new home, you can:
- Browse fish available near you
- List your own fish in minutes
- Avoid the risks of shipping
Explore local listings with TankMate UK and find the right fish for your aquarium.