Origin
Originally native to northern South America, especially Venezuela and Trinidad river systems. The Electric Blue variety is a captive-bred morph of Andinoacara pulcher.

Visual & Functional Appeal
Vibrant electric blue body with shimmer that intensifies under good lighting. Rounded fins and graceful movement make them both elegant and commanding in a tank. Juveniles start pale but develop bold color as they mature.

Purpose
Functions as a mid- to bottom-dwelling centerpiece fish. Adds color and contrast without disrupting peaceful tankmates. Helps stir substrate and will graze slightly on algae.

Importance
Perfect for aquarists looking for a manageable introduction to cichlids. Offers beauty, interactivity, and ease of care without the typical aggression of larger species.

Included Resources
Thrives with moderate filtration, planted environments, and soft to moderately hard water. Sand or fine gravel substrate preferred. Benefits from driftwood and shaded hiding areas.

Best Use Cases
Works well in South American community tanks, planted aquascapes, or mixed tanks with similar-size fish. Avoid pairing with delicate nano fish or hyper-aggressive cichlids.

Conservation Context
Electric Blue Acaras are selectively bred and not found in the wild. Their popularity reduces demand for wild-caught stock, supporting sustainable aquarium trade practices.

Ideal Aquatic Animals
• Corydoras catfish
• Angelfish and rainbowfish
• Swordtails and mollies
• Peaceful plecos
• Rams and keyhole cichlids

Region (A)
• Latitude: 10.4806° N
• Longitude: -66.9036° W
(Central Venezuela — Orinoco River Basin)

Region (B)
• Latitude: 10.6918° N
• Longitude: -61.2225° W
(Trinidad — Northern Caribbean estuaries)