Red-backed acara

Laetacara dorsigera

Family : Cichlidae

FishFreshwatercichlid-south-america

Small peaceful cichlid with reddish back, ideal for planted community aquariums.

Popularity
Biotope specialist
requires biotope recreation
Availability
Specialty only
Shop availability
IUCN Status
LC
Least Concern
Biotope
South America
Hors bassin amazonien : Paraná, Orénoque, Andes.

Description

The red-backed acara reaches up to 10 cm. Its body is elongated, silvery with an orange-red tint on the back and dorsal fin. A black stripe crosses the eye. Males are slightly larger and more colorful. It is a gregarious and peaceful fish, living in pairs or small groups. It is not territorial outside breeding. In the aquarium, it enjoys plants and hiding places.

Habitat

Region :

Blackwater rivers and ponds, shallow areas with dense vegetation

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature2428 °C
pH67
GH210 °dGH
KH28 °dKH
NO₃
≤ 20 mg/L
PO₄
≤ 0.5 mg/L

Care

Difficulty
2/5
Diet
Omnivore
Min. tank
80 L
Min. group
2
Adult size
10 cm
Lifespan
6 years
Temperament
Peaceful
Propagation
substrate spawner

Care notes

At least 80 liters for a pair. Soft (GH 2-10) and acidic (pH 6-7) water, temperature 24-28°C. Omnivorous diet: small pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia. Compatible with tetras, rasboras, corydoras and other small peaceful fish. A planted tank with roots and dark substrate is ideal. Breeding is easy, parents lay eggs on a hard surface. Keep nitrates below 20 mg/L and phosphates below 0.5 mg/L.

Similar species

Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance

References