Cichlid Uaru 4cm

Cichlid Uaru

Uaru cichlids are often known as the gentle giants of the aquarium hobby, reaching around 30 cm whilst also being a completely peaceful species is something not commonly seen in the aquarium hobby. Uaru aren't the most vibrant fish either but for the aquarist looking to make a dynamic community system or a biotope. Uaru cichlids have a classic large cichlid oval body shape and are laterally compressed. They do however get quite bulky as adults which makes them a great showpiece fish.

Uaru cichlids are quite well known for how they change colours as they mature. Juvenile Uaru mimics the look of a dried or decaying leaf with a light brown colour overlaid with camouflage speckling and spots. As these fish mature the brown tones really darken until the body is chocolate in colour with a jet-black streak that runs through it. There are also faint spots and patches of yellow especially towards the pectoral fin and importantly the eyes. These fish are a true gentle giant and get along with a wide range of community fish which is what makes them such a great display species.

Breeding Uaru cichlids in the home aquarium is relatively easy. It's usually best to get a group of 6 or more fish to see if they naturally pair off, males tend to be larger with dominant behaviour in the aquarium and have more pointed fins than females. They will find a smooth surface to lay eggs and then proceed to guard them until they are free swimming. If you have experience breeding species like convict cichlids or angelfish then Uaru cichlids will be a breeze.

Tank Recommendations for your Uaru Cichlid

Uaru cichlids will reach around 30 cm when fully grown. Because of this, it is best to keep them in a tank with a minimum volume of 450 litres as they do prefer to be with members of their species. They will however eat plants so the ideal tank setup would be to have a sandy substrate, river stones, caves, and driftwood for cover. Once settled in these fish will be a very personable species and spend a lot of time out in the open.

Suitable Tank Buddies

Uaru is relatively peaceful with mild territorial aggression. They can be kept with fish smaller in size than them however invertebrates like shrimp should be avoided.

Usually Compatible

Festivum, chocolate cichlids, silver sharks, Brochis corydoras, leporinus, blue Acara, silver dollars, and other larger peaceful species.

Sometimes Compatible

Black widow tetras, Congo tetras, Kribensis, and smaller species fast species.

Rarely Compatible

Dovii cichlids, barramundi, or anything that would display immense territorial or predatory aggression.

Feeding your Uaru Cichlid

Uaru is incredibly easy to feed. They take to a wide range of foods and should have a varied diet for optimal health. Giving them an assortment of flakes, pellets, and frozen and live foods will not only make them thrive but also show off amazing colours.