Acora Festivum (Mesonauta acora) Care Guide
Mesonauta acora is a peaceful festivum cichlid from the Tocantins and Xingu basins of eastern Brazil, described by Castelnau in 1855.
Overview
Mesonauta acora is one of the festivum cichlids, a group within the family Cichlidae described from South America. It was originally described by Castelnau in 1855. Like other Mesonauta, it forms loose groups near the surface and displays dark body bars that fade when the fish is relaxed.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Mesonauta
- Scientific name: Mesonauta acora
- Described by Castelnau, 1855
Habitat
The species occurs in the Amazon drainage of eastern Brazil, specifically in the Tocantins and Xingu river basins. Mesonauta cichlids generally inhabit freshwater with little water movement and abundant aquatic vegetation, occurring in streams and lakes.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 200 L (about 53 gal)
- Temperature: 24-28 °C (75-82 °F)
- pH: 5.5-7.2
- GH: 2-10 °dGH
- Group size: 4 or more individuals
- Lifespan: 6-10 years
FishBase reports a maximum standard length of about 7.1 cm and a pH preference from 5.5 upward, with temperatures from roughly 22 °C; the aquarium ranges above reflect typical husbandry for the species.
Diet
Mesonauta acora is an omnivore, occupying an intermediate position in the food web (FishBase trophic level about 3.3). In the aquarium it accepts prepared foods, frozen and live invertebrates, and some plant matter; feeding twice daily suits its medium build.
Compatibility
The species is peaceful and occupies the middle to upper water column. It is suited to community aquariums with similarly calm South American fish such as larger tetras, Geophagus and bristlenose plecos. Very small tetras may be viewed as food, and boisterous or aggressive cichlids should be avoided.
Breeding
Mesonauta acora is a substrate spawner. According to FishBase, both parents care for the eggs and larvae, a biparental pattern typical of the genus.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern, assessed in 2018.