Description
Uaru Cichlid (Uaru amphiacanthoides)
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Uaru amphiacanthoides
Common Names: Uaru Cichlid, Triangle Cichlid, Chocolate Cichlid
Family: Cichlidae (Cichlid Family)
Order: Cichliformes
Origin: Amazon Basin — found in Brazil, Colombia, and Venezuela, especially in slow-moving blackwater tributaries and flooded forest areas.
Size: Up to 25–30 cm (10–12 inches) in captivity
Lifespan: 8 – 12 years
Tank Zone: Mid and bottom dweller
🌊 Water Parameters
Temperature: 26 – 30°C (79 – 86°F)
pH: 5.5 – 7.0
Hardness: 2 – 10 dGH
TDS: 50 – 200 ppm
🐟 Characteristics
Body Shape: Distinct oval or disc-shaped body, similar to a Discus or Severum.
Coloration: Light brown to olive body with a large dark patch mid-body; juveniles often display more distinct patterns.
Fins: Long, flowing dorsal and anal fins enhance its elegant look.
Behavior: Calm and intelligent; known for recognizing their keeper.
Special Feature: Develops stronger color contrast and more defined markings as they mature.
🍽️ Diet
Type: Omnivorous (leaning herbivorous)
Diet: Vegetables (blanched spinach, peas, zucchini), high-quality pellets, spirulina flakes, and occasional bloodworms or brine shrimp.
Feeding Frequency: 2 times daily in moderate portions.
Tip: Avoid excessive protein — a plant-rich diet keeps them healthy and vibrant.
🛠️ Maintenance
Tank Size: Minimum 300 liters (75 gallons) for a pair or small group.
Filtration: Strong filtration with moderate current; needs pristine water quality.
Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel.
Decor: Driftwood, smooth stones, and hardy plants like Anubias or Java Fern attached to décor.
Lighting: Moderate; prefers shaded or dim environments.
Water Change: 30–40% weekly to maintain softness and stability.
👥 Social Behavior
Nature: Generally peaceful, though can be territorial during breeding.
Group Size: Can be kept singly, as a bonded pair, or in small groups.
Tank Mates: Peaceful large species like Discus, Angelfish, Severum, Geophagus, and Silver Dollars.
Avoid: Aggressive cichlids such as Oscars or large predatory species.
✅ Do’s
• Maintain soft, warm, and clean water.
• Provide plenty of swimming space.
• Include vegetable matter in diet.
• Add natural driftwood and hiding spaces.
❌ Don’ts
• Avoid overcrowding the tank.
• Don’t feed only protein-based food.
• Avoid keeping with fin-nippers or rough tank mates.
⭐ Quick Tip:
The Uaru Cichlid is a graceful and intelligent Amazonian species prized for its peaceful nature, striking triangular body, and human-like behavior. With proper care, it becomes a centerpiece fish that interacts with its keeper and thrives beautifully in a calm, well-maintained community setup.
