The Uaru cichlid - Uaru amphiacanthoides
Scientific name: Uaru amphiacanthoides
Common name: The Uaru cichlid
Family: Cichlidae
Usual size in fish tanks: 16 - 20 cm (6.3 - 7.87 inch)
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Recommended pH range for the species: 5 - 7
Recommended water hardness (dGH): 5 - 12°N (89.29 - 214.29ppm)
0°C 32°F30°C 86°F
Recommended temperature: 26 - 28 °C (78.8 - 82.4°F)
The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning
Where the species comes from: South America
Temperament to its own species: peaceful
Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful
Usual place in the tank: Middle levels
Food and feeding
The Uaru cichlids should eat all foods offered. Always supply them with quality flake or pellets as the staple diet but give them treats as well of blood worms, tubifex, and brine shrimp.
Origin
South America; The Uaru cichlids are found in the Amazonian River Basins.
Sexing
Very difficult to sex, it is easier to purchase a group of six fish and let them pair naturally.
Breeding
Uaru can be difficult to get to breed but not impossible. The female will lay her eggs in the substrate, anything from 100 -1000 eggs will be laid. The female will fan the eggs until they have hatched and the fry will initially eat from the mucus on the body of their parents. When larger, the fry will accept newly hatched brine shrimp and crushed flake.
Lifespan
The expected life span for Uaru amphiacanthoides is 8-12 years.
Short description
Uaru amphiacanthoides are very intelligent and will soon recognize their owner. They can grow up to 10 inches in length so should be kept in a larger aquarium. The juveniles will be mottled in appearance but when adult their colouration will take on a darker appearance. The Uaru cichlids eat plants.