Uaru Cichlid - Uaru amphiacanthoides : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Uaru Cichlid (Uaru amphiacanthoides) is renowned for its gentle and sociable nature, often congregating in small social groups within its natural blackwater habitat. As a large and relatively uncommon aquarium species, it stands out as an impressive addition to the tank. Notably, the Uaru Cichlid is recognized as a food fish in its native environment and is frequently found in local markets.
In appearance, this species boasts an oval to disc-shaped body with captivating tan-to-blue colouration and distinctive black blotches along its sides. Mature individuals showcase bright yellow eyes accentuated with black pupils, adding to their allure.
While the Uaru Cichlid is not commonly encountered in aquariums within the United States, it can prove to be a rewarding choice for enthusiasts with sufficiently large tanks. Due to their friendly nature, keeping a pair together in one tank is advisable to ensure their well-being.
Despite being peaceful and intelligent, this species demands specialized care, making it more suitable for experienced hobbyists. For those well-versed in caring for larger fish species, the Uaru Cichlid offers a delightful combination of intelligence and amiable disposition, making it an esteemed addition to any aquarium setting.
Uaru Cichlids are known for their peaceful demeanour, making them compatible with other medium to large-sized peaceable species in the aquarium. Suitable tankmates include Dwarf Gourami, Silver Dollars, Rosy Tetras, Neon Tetras, and similar species.
However, caution should be exercised when considering the inclusion of other Cichlid species, as many tend to be too aggressive to coexist harmoniously with the tranquil Uaru Cichlid. In situations where two Uaru Cichlids pair off and become confrontational, separating them from the rest of the group is advisable to mitigate potential conflicts.
To accommodate the Uaru Cichlids' specific needs, the aquarium should be a minimum of 48 inches in length and designed with a dark substrate, providing a dimly lit environment. Aquascaping should involve ample bogwood and robust plant species such as Microsorum. Artificial plants are preferred, as Uaru Cichlids have a penchant for consuming fine-leaved or soft-leaved plants.
Given their susceptibility to poor water conditions, diligent attention to water quality is essential. Adequate filtration and regular partial water changes are imperative to maintain a healthy environment for these fish. Introducing Uaru Cichlids into a well-established aquarium is crucial, as they are not recommended for novice aquarists due to their specialized care requirements.
Uaru Cichlid Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Regrettably, Uaru Cichlids do not exhibit sexual dimorphism.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Uaru amphiacanthoides |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1840 |
| Other Names | Triangle Cichlid |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cichliformes |
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Genus | Abramites |
| Origins | Brazil , Guyana |
| Max Size | 25 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | All Levels |
| Difficulty | Intermediate - Advanced |
| Shoaling | NA |
| Best kept as | Pairs |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg Depositor |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 10 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.0 - 7.0 |
| GH | 1 - 5 |
| ℉ | 82 - 86 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 27 - 30 |
Natural Habitat
Uaru Cichlids are indigenous to specific regions within the Amazon Basin, specifically in northern Brazil and Guyana, South America. They are commonly found in two distinct areas, encompassing the middle to lower stretches of the Rio Negro and the regions between the Rio Japurá and Rio Tapajós, along the Rio Solimões and the main Amazon River.
Their natural habitat is characterized by clear, warm, soft, and acidic waters. In order to thrive, it is imperative to replicate these environmental conditions within the confines of the home aquarium. In the wild, these captivating fish seek refuge in shaded areas amidst lush vegetation and fallen trees, demonstrating a preference for secure habitats.
Breeding
Breeding Uaru Cichlids presents a notable challenge due to the difficulty in determining their sex definitively. For successful breeding endeavours, it is advisable to maintain multiple individuals within the breeding tank. Elevating the tank water temperature to approximately 89°F is recommended to stimulate breeding activity.
As Uaru Cichlids approach the spawning phase, a remarkable transformation occurs, characterized by a striking change in colouration. Their sides turn black with brown edges, and their eyes acquire a distinctive red spot.
To facilitate successful spawning, it is essential to provide the breeding tank with flat pieces of rock or bogwood, serving as suitable surfaces for the deposition of eggs. Following spawning, it is not uncommon for the pair to consume any unfertilized eggs. A female Uaru Cichlid typically lays a considerable quantity of approximately 400 eggs, which hatch in approximately 48 hours.
During the initial five days after hatching, the Uaru Cichlid fry will rely on consuming mucus secreted by their parents, making specialized foods for very tiny fry unnecessary. It is advisable to separate the parents from the young after around 10 to 14 days to prevent the young from overfeeding on the adult's secretion. Subsequently, the fry's diet can be supplemented with small live foods until they are ready to consume larger Cichlid foods.
Diet & Feeding
Uaru Cichlids primarily display herbivorous tendencies, although they benefit from a diverse diet that includes some meaty elements. To ensure their well-being, it is essential to maintain heavily planted tanks, although it should be noted that they may consume or nibble on common aquarium plants.
For their herbivorous needs, Uaru Cichlids can be provided with various vegetables, such as cabbage, lettuce, cucumber slices, and chopped zucchini. However, any plant material introduced to the tank must undergo blanching in boiling water and subsequent cooling to eliminate potential bacteria or diseases. It is advised to avoid adding unblanched vegetable matter, as it could introduce harmful pathogens to the aquarium environment.
The optimal feeding regimen for Uaru Cichlids entails twice-daily meals, with meaty foods being offered twice weekly. Bloodworms and chopped shrimp are among the commonly appreciated foods for this species.
To maintain water quality and prevent any adverse effects, it is crucial to only offer the amount of food that the Uaru can consume within a few minutes. Any uneaten portions should be promptly removed from the tank to avoid decomposition and water contamination.
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