The Port Acara is a hardy, medium-sized South American cichlid. Known for being relatively peaceful compared to other cichlids of its size, it makes an excellent entry-level cichlid for community tanks with appropriately sized tank mates. They display subtle but beautiful iridescent green and blue spangling. During breeding, they become territorial and will dig pits in the substrate, potentially uprooting unsecured plants.
Port Acara At a Glance
Port Acara Tank Requirements
Will Port Acara fit in your tank?
Care guides tell you what Port Acara needs, the next question is whether your tank can safely provide it. Test Port Acara against your tank size, maintenance needs, and the fish you already keep before you buy.
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Port Acara Water Parameters
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Port Acara Temperament & Compatibility
Port Acara Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Standard
Same care requirements as the base species
Also known as: Adult, Wild Type
Port Acara Care Guide Summary
The Port Acara, scientifically known as Cichlasoma portalegrense, belongs to the Cichlids - South American family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 15 cm and have a compressed body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as semi-aggressive, this species primarily occupies the mid-level and bottom zones of the aquarium and produces a high level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Port Acara requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 150 litres and a tank length of at least 90 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 22°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 6–7.5 and a general hardness of 3–15 dGH. A low water flow is preferred.
The Port Acara is a rewarding species to keep, provided its core environmental needs are met. The Port Acara is typically available in one standard form.
Port Acara Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Port Acara, a low water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the mid-level and bottom zones, the aquarium layout should prioritise open swimming space in the centre of the tank for free movement and sufficient floor space with hiding spots among rocks, wood, or dense planting. Useful additions include a sand substrate to accommodate their sifting behaviour and driftwood, which can serve as both a hiding place and a dietary supplement. Keepers should note that expect substrate disturbance, so lightweight décor should be secured.
Port Acara Compatibility Notes
Classified as semi-aggressive, the Port Acara is adaptable and can be kept singly or in a small group, offering flexibility when planning a community tank. When choosing tankmates, territorial behaviour may cause issues if hiding spots or floor space are limited. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the mid-level and bottom zones can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Port Acara Recommended Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes that meet the minimum volume and length requirements for Port Acara.
40 Gallon Breeder
55 Gallon Standard
60 Gallon Breeder
75 Gallon Standard
90 Gallon Standard
125 Gallon Standard
Show 9 more tank sizes
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Frequently Asked Questions About Port Acara
How big does Port Acara get?
Port Acara (Cichlasoma portalegrense) typically reaches a maximum adult size of approximately 15 cm. They have a compressed body shape and a moderate growth rate.
What tank size does Port Acara need?
A minimum aquarium volume of 150 litres and a tank length of at least 90 cm are recommended for Port Acara. This ensures enough swimming space and helps maintain stable water conditions.
What water parameters does Port Acara need?
Port Acara thrives in freshwater only conditions with a temperature range of 22–28°C, a pH between 6 and 7.5, and a general hardness of 3–15 dGH. A low water flow is preferred.
Is Port Acara peaceful or aggressive?
Port Acara is classified as semi-aggressive with an aggression score of 5 out of 10. They can work in community setups but may clash with certain tankmates.
Can Port Acara live alone?
Yes, Port Acara can be kept singly or in a group. They are flexible and adapt well to both setups.
Does Port Acara have any special tank requirements?
Yes. Port Acara benefits from sand (sifters) and driftwood (digestion/hiding) in the aquarium. These features help replicate their natural habitat and promote overall health and well-being.
Plants That Suit Port Acara
These plants pair well with Port Acara based on shared water preferences, layout fit, and how likely they are to hold up in the same aquarium.
Amazon Frogbit
Limnobium laevigatum
Asian Watergrass
Hygroryza aristata
Asian Watermoss
Salvinia cucullata
Carolina Mosquito Fern
Azolla caroliniana
Common Duckweed
Lemna minor
Crystalwort
Riccia fluitans
Fish Similar to Port Acara
Black Acara
Cichlasoma bimaculatum
A hardy, adaptable, and robust South American cichlid. They are relatively peaceful compared to larger cichlids but become highly territorial when breeding. Known for their oval-shaped body, greyish-green coloration, and a distinct black mid-lateral spot. They naturally sift through the substrate and require sandy bottoms.
Blue Acara
Andinoacara pulcher
A stunning and relatively peaceful South American cichlid. While they possess classic cichlid traits—such as digging and territoriality during breeding—they are generally far more tolerant of tank mates than their larger cousins (like the Green Terror). They will, however, eagerly consume any fish small enough to fit in their mouths (like Neon Tetras).
Aequidens sp. Atabapo
Aequidens sp. Atabapo
A rare, undescribed species of Acara native to the blackwater Rio Atabapo in South America. They are characterized by small spots on the head and a typical robust, deep Aequidens body. Like other Acaras, they are moderately aggressive (especially when breeding) and thrive in very soft, warm, acidic water with sandy substrates and leaf litter.
Aequidens Jenaro Herrera
Aequidens sp. 'Jenaro Herrera'
An undescribed and beautifully colored South American cichlid hailing from the Peruvian Amazon (Rio Itaya/Ucayali drainages). Often confused in the trade with Aequidens diadema, this species features an attractive green-gold metallic sheen and reddish fins as it matures. They are relatively peaceful for mid-sized cichlids but will aggressively defend their territory during spawning and are capable predators of small fish.
Green Terror
Andinoacara rivulatus
A large, incredibly colorful, and highly aggressive South American cichlid. Known for their striking metallic green/blue scales and vibrant orange or white tail margins. As their name suggests, they are highly territorial and require very careful tankmate selection, usually only coexisting with other large, robust cichlids or armored catfish in very large tanks.
Blue Point Cichlid
Andinoacara coeruleopunctatus
The Blue Point Cichlid (formerly Aequidens coeruleopunctatus) is a medium-sized Central and South American cichlid closely related to the Green Terror, but notably less aggressive. They are benthopelagic omnivores with a natural tendency to sift and dig through sandy substrates. While relatively peaceful for a cichlid of its size, it remains highly territorial during breeding and dominant males are completely intolerant of rival males.