Checkerboard Acara (Crenicara punctulatum)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Hard care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameCrenicara punctulatum

FamilyCichlidae

Also known asPunctulatum, Spotted Checkerboard Acara

Care levelHard

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentPeaceful

Dietcarnivore

Adult size4 in

Minimum tank size30 gallons

Water parametersTemp 78-85°F, pH 5.5-7.0, GH 1-8 dGH

Appearance

Slender silvery body with a checkerboard of dark spots along the flanks and subtle blue and red highlights on the fins of dominant males.

Difficulty and care for the Checkerboard Acara

Hard

Origin and habitat

Amazon Basin, South America

Keeper notes

Peaceful, somewhat shy acara that can sex-change (protogynous). Harmless to most tankmates but will eat small shrimp and fry. Sensitive to water quality; keep with calm soft-water companions.

Log Checkerboard Acara in your reef tank

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