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Uaru, Uaru amphiacanthoides
South American · Species profile

Uaru care

Surprisingly peaceful for such a large cichlid. It does best in a group.

  • Up to about 10 inches, not counting the tailAdult size
  • 81 to 86 FTemperature

Food

An omnivore that needs plenty of plant matter, such as spirulina pellets and blanched vegetables, plus meaty foods.

Feeding guide

Tank mates

Angelfish, severums, geophagus, larger tetras.

Compatibility guide

Best setup

A large tank, at least 4 feet long and 18 inches front to back for one adult, much larger for a group. Soft to moderate water, sand, driftwood and leaf litter, with plants and gentle flow. Keep nitrate low with regular water changes.

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Care basics

The uaru is a large, disc shaped cichlid related to discus and Heros. Adults are tan to olive with a big dark blotch along the side.

It needs warm, soft, clean water and a lot of vegetable food. Good tank mates include angelfish, severums, eartheaters and larger tetras that like the same warmth.

Quick facts

Scientific nameUaru amphiacanthoides
GroupSouth America
Native toAmazon and Negro basins of Brazil
Adult sizeUp to about 10 inches, not counting the tail
Tank sizeA large tank, at least 4 feet long and 18 inches front to back for one adult, much larger for a group
Temperature81 to 86 F
pH6.0 to 7.0, soft water
TemperamentSurprisingly peaceful for such a large cichlid. It does best in a group.

Figures follow published species profiles such as Seriously Fish, and tank sizes are general guidance. Individual fish and local water vary, so test your water and ask your fish store about the specific fish you buy.

Ozzy the oscar holding a shopping bag
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Shop the Uaru setup

The tank, food, filter, heater and decor that suit Uaru, based on the care notes above.

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Gear We Recommend

Gear for Uaru

All gear
Best for: Mbuna and other grazers

Spirulina cichlid food

A veggie heavy diet helps prevent bloat in Malawi rock dwellers.

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Best for: Tanks 55 gallons and up

Canister filter

Moves lots of water and holds lots of media. The workhorse of most cichlid tanks.

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Best for: South American and pleco tanks

Aquarium driftwood

Natural cover and a grazing surface for plecos.

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Best for: Oscars and big cichlid communities

125 gallon tank

Six feet of swimming room for big New World cichlids.

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