Texas Cichlid

The Uaru Cichlid is one of the most intelligent, peaceful, and fascinating South American cichlids available in the aquarium hobby. Often referred to as the "Triangle Cichlid" due to its distinctive body shape, the Uaru is admired for its unique appearance, social nature, and remarkable personality.

Native to the Amazon River Basin, Uarus develop a beautiful olive, bronze, and chocolate-brown coloration accented by a distinctive dark mid-body patch and subtle iridescent highlights. While juveniles display a striking spotted pattern, adults transform into elegant, sophisticated fish that become true centrepieces in large aquarium displays.

Unlike many large cichlids, Uarus are generally peaceful and highly social. They thrive when kept in groups and are renowned for their intelligence, often recognising their owners and displaying curious, interactive behaviour. Their calm temperament and compatibility with other South American species have made them a favourite among experienced aquarists.

For hobbyists seeking a unique and highly rewarding cichlid with incredible character, the Uaru is one of the finest choices available.

Why You'll Love Them

• Unique diamond-shaped body profile
• Highly intelligent and interactive personality
• Peaceful temperament for a large cichlid
• Excellent for South American community aquariums
• Beautiful colour transformation from juvenile to adult
• Thrives in groups and displays fascinating social behaviours

Care Requirements

• Tank Size: 500L+ recommended
• Temperature: 26-30°C
• pH: 5.5-7.5
• Diet: Omnivorous with a strong preference for vegetable matter – quality cichlid pellets, spirulina foods, vegetables, fruits, and occasional frozen foods
• Difficulty: Intermediate to Advanced

Behaviour & Compatibility

Uaru Cichlids are peaceful, social fish that do best when kept in groups. They establish natural hierarchies but rarely display the aggression commonly associated with other large cichlids.

Suitable Tank Mates

• Geophagus Species
• Severums
• Angelfish
• Festivum Cichlids
• Silver Dollars
• Peaceful Plecos
• Large Corydoras
• Peaceful Catfish
• Other Uaru

Avoid keeping them with highly aggressive cichlids that may stress or dominate them.

Aquascaping Notes

Uarus thrive in spacious aquariums designed to replicate the flooded forests and slow-moving rivers of the Amazon. Large pieces of driftwood, leaf litter, open swimming areas, and subdued lighting help create a natural and comfortable environment.

A soft sand substrate is recommended, particularly when keeping them alongside Geophagus species. Be aware that Uarus are notorious plant eaters and will readily consume many aquarium plants. If a planted display is desired, hardy species such as Anubias may offer the best chance of success.

Their natural colours and graceful movements are beautifully showcased in large Amazon biotope aquariums featuring wood, tannin-stained water, and natural décor.