Uaru Cichlid Care Guide

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Introduction

Uaru cichlids occupy an unusual niche — they are gentle, social, primarily herbivorous fish that do far better in groups than as solitary specimens. The Panda Uaru (Uaru fernandezyepezi) is a rarer and more beautiful species, displaying striking black and white juvenile colouration. Both species originate from the soft, acidic rivers of the Amazon and Orinoco basins. They are sometimes called the “clown cichlid” due to their playful, curious behaviour and are entirely underappreciated in the UK hobby.

Tank Setup

• Size: 4 x 2 ft for a pair; 5-6 ft for a group of 4-6 fish.
• Plants: Uaru will eat virtually all soft-leaved plants. Use robust species (Java Fern, Anubias) or artificial plants.
• Decor: Driftwood, smooth rounded rocks and slate pieces. Provide visual breaks for social hierarchy management.
• Lighting: Moderate.

Water Parameters

Temperature: 26-29 C. pH: 5.5-7.0. Hardness: 0-8 dGH (soft water essential). Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm. Nitrate below 20 ppm. Perform 30-40% water changes twice weekly. Peat filtration or blackwater extract improves colour.

Feeding

• Spirulina-based flakes and pellets as a quality staple.
• Fresh vegetables: blanched courgette, spinach, romaine lettuce, cucumber.
• Frozen foods: bloodworm, brine shrimp and daphnia as occasional treats.
• Small pieces of mango or banana are accepted with enthusiasm.

Social Behaviour and Tankmates

Uaru are most comfortable in groups of 4+. In pairs or alone they become shy and stressed. Suitable tankmates include large tetras, Geophagus, Silver Dollars and Discus. Avoid very aggressive cichlids.

Breeding

Uaru are open substrate spawners that clean a flat surface and deposit up to 1,000 eggs. Both parents guard zealously. Uniquely, parents feed the fry mucus secreted from their skin (similar to Discus) — do not separate parents and fry in the early stages. First foods: infusoria, then baby brine shrimp, then finely crushed spirulina flakes.