Blue-Dotted Acara (Andinoacara coeruleopunctatus) Care Guide
Andinoacara coeruleopunctatus is a hardy Central American acara from Panama and Costa Rica with blue spotting on each scale, described by Kner in 1863.
Overview
Andinoacara coeruleopunctatus, known as the blue-dotted acara, blue-point flag cichlid or chogorro, is a Central American cichlid described by Kner in 1863. It is a hardy, adaptable species marked by blue spotting across the body.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Andinoacara
- Scientific name: Andinoacara coeruleopunctatus
- Described by Kner, 1863
Habitat
The species occurs in Central America on the Atlantic slope of Panama and the Pacific slope of Costa Rica, including the Coto River. It inhabits freshwater streams and rivers across this range.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 200 L (about 53 gal)
- Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
- pH: 6.5-7.8
- GH: 5-15 °dGH
- Maximum size: about 14.5 cm (males)
- Lifespan: 6-10 years
Wikipedia notes males reaching about 14.5 cm total length. The water parameters above follow the verified KB record and the species' adaptable, moderately hard-water tolerance.
Diet
The species is an omnivore. In the aquarium it readily takes prepared foods, frozen and live invertebrates and some plant matter, fed twice daily.
Compatibility
Semi-aggressive and mid-water dwelling, it can be kept with robust tankmates such as convict cichlids, silver dollars and bristlenose plecos. Tiny tetras may be eaten and overtly aggressive cichlids should be avoided, particularly during breeding.
Breeding
Andinoacara coeruleopunctatus is an open substrate spawner. It produces eggs by the hundreds, and both parents guard the eggs and fry, continuing care for about a week after the fry become free-swimming.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern.