🐠 Royal Acara (Aequidens diadema) – Stunning South American Cichlid for Sale

The Royal Acara (Aequidens diadema) is a rare and striking South American cichlid admired for its metallic blue-green shimmer, red/orange accents, and peaceful temperament compared to many other cichlids. Native to the Amazon Basin and its tributaries, this species is less common than the Blue Acara (Andinoacara pulcher) and makes a unique centerpiece fish for medium to large aquariums.

Ideal for aquarists seeking something different, the Royal Acara brings color, personality, and elegance without the extreme aggression often seen in other cichlids.

🔎 Quick Facts – Royal Acara (Aequidens diadema)

• 📛 Common Name: Royal Acara
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Aequidens diadema
• 🌍 Origin: South America (Amazon River & tributaries)
• 🎨 Appearance: Shimmering blue-green scales, red/orange highlights, flowing fins
• 📏 Adult Size: 6–8 inches (15–20 cm)
• 💎 Availability: Rare, wild-caught and tank-bred specimens available

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• 🐠 Semi-peaceful – calmer than most South American cichlids
• 🤝 Community-friendly with medium to large non-aggressive fish
• 👑 Pairs or groups possible with adequate space
• 🛡️ Territorial during breeding, especially in smaller tanks

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Setup

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 40–55 gallons or larger
• 🌿 Aquascape: Ideal in planted aquariums with driftwood and rock décor
• 🪵 Hiding Spots: Provide caves and shelters for security and breeding
• 💡 Lighting: Moderate, enhances natural iridescence
• 🌊 Water Flow: Gentle to moderate, simulating river conditions

💧 Water Parameters – Royal Acara Care

• 🌡️ Temperature: 74–82°F (23–28°C)
• ⚗️ pH Range: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic preferred)
• 💧 Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water

🍽️ Diet & Feeding – Omnivorous Cichlid

• 🌾 Staple: High-quality sinking cichlid pellets
• 🦐 Protein: Frozen/live brine shrimp, bloodworms, mysis shrimp
• 🥬 Vegetables: Blanched spinach, zucchini, peas
• 🐟 Treats: Krill, chopped earthworms for extra nutrition

💡 Feeding Tip: At Jason’s Plecos & Cichlids, we feed a balanced rotation of pellets, vegetables, and high-protein foods to bring out natural colors, maintain strong growth, and support long-term health in our cichlids.

📋 Royal Acara Care Overview Table

✨ Why Choose the Royal Acara?

The Royal Acara (Aequidens diadema) is a rarely offered South American cichlid that combines:

• 🌟 Unique coloration with metallic blue-green shimmer
• 🐠 Peaceful temperament compared to aggressive cichlids
• 🎯 Manageable size for mid-sized aquariums
• 🌿 Compatibility with planted and community tanks

👉 A true showpiece fish for aquarists seeking something special beyond the common Blue Acara.