One of the most beautiful freshwater fish It is the blue mojarra, also known as the luminous mojarra or blue acara. This fish, whose scientific name is Aequidens pulcher, stands out for its striking coloration and behavior. Originally from the river basins of Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela and even Colombia, the bluegill has become one of the most popular species in aquarium hobby.
Origin and distribution
The bluegill lives in Rivers and river basins of South America, particularly in the Caribbean Basin, the Catatumbo Basin and the Orinoco River Basin. Although it is native to Venezuela and Trinidad and Tobago, today it can also be found in Colombia, in places such as the Ciénaga Grande de Lorica.
These regions are characterized by tropical water temperatures, often with dense vegetation and moderate current levels. Its ability to adapt to different water conditions has made it popular in home aquariums.
Physical characteristics of the bluegill
The body of the bluegill is oval and robust, with a mouth protractile which allows it to catch small prey with ease. In addition to the three spines on its anal fin, the bluegill has a rich coloration that distinguishes it from other cichlid fish: a dark brown tone. greenish blue with dark transverse bands on its body and bluish lines running along its cheeks.
There are clear sexual dimorphisms between male and female. Males are generally more intensely coloured and can reach larger sizes than females. In terms of size, males can reach up to 15 cm, while females are usually somewhat smaller, around 12 cm.
Habitat and aquarium conditions
For bluegill to thrive in captivity, the aquarium should replicate the conditions of its natural habitat as closely as possible. Below are some recommended parameters to ensure its well-being:
- Aquarium size: At least 100 liters for a couple.
- Water temperature: Between 24 and 28°C.
- pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.5 and 7.5.
- Water hardness: 5 to 15 dGH.
The aquarium should have enough space for swimming, as they are active fish, and hardy plants such as Anubias o MicrosorumIt is also important to include rocks or logs so they can hide and establish their territory. Bluegill tend to be territorial, especially when paired, so it is recommended to avoid placing too many fish in the same space to prevent conflict.
An important point is that these fish produce large amount of waste, so it is essential to carry out frequent partial water changes (around 20-30% of the water weekly). In addition, it is advisable to have a powerful filtration system to avoid the accumulation of toxic compounds such as ammonia or nitrites.
Bluegill feeding
The bluegill is a omnivorous fish, which means that in the wild it feeds on both plant matter and small animal prey. In its natural habitat, the diet of these fish includes aquatic insects, crustaceans and small fish. However, in captivity it is essential to ensure a varied diet to maintain its vibrant coloration and maintain good health.
- Live food: Bloodworms, mosquito larvae and brine shrimp are good options.
- Frozen food: Frozen brine shrimp, daphnia and krill.
- Commercial foods: Specific granules or sticks for cichlids that are rich in protein.
- Plant component: Boiled spinach, cucumber or peas from time to time to supplement your diet.
Remember It is not recommended to feed bluegill exclusively with flake food., as they will need a high protein diet to stay healthy. In addition, it is advisable to feed these fish several times a day in small amounts to avoid the accumulation of waste in the water.
Behavior and compatibility
Although the bluegill is generally peaceful, can become territorial, especially during the breeding season. They are not fish that usually chase other species, but they will want to defend their territory firmly. In this sense, if the space in the aquarium is limited, conflicts with other fish can arise.
Regarding compatibility with other species de peces, bluegill can live with community fish of similar size and non-aggressive behavior. Some good options include catfish Corydoras or fish AngelHowever, you should avoid introducing small species such as tetras or guppies, as they could be perceived as prey.
If the aquarium has enough space and hiding places, bluegills can live with other cichlids, as long as their territories are respected. Another option is to keep a single pair in a dedicated aquarium.
Reproduction in aquarium
The bluegill is a species oviparous and relatively easy to breed in aquariums. For breeding to occur, it is important that a pair is formed. When paired, males and females will stay together throughout the process of laying and caring for eggs and larvae. During the courtship stage, the male will perform Vibrating movements with their fins to attract the female.
Breeding tank conditions
- pH: Neutral, between 6.5 and 7.0.
- Temperature: Keep the water between 24 and 26°C to facilitate reproduction.
- Separate aquarium: Ideally, you should have a breeding aquarium with at least 40 liters.
Once the female chooses a flat surface such as a clean rock, she will deposit her eggs there, and the male will proceed to fertilize them. Eggs will hatch in 2 to 5 days. after being laid, and the fry will feed on the yolk sac for a few days before being started on live food such as brine shrimp nauplii.
Care of fry
After the eggs hatch, both the male and the female take it upon themselves to protect the fry. The male may take the fry in his mouth to protect them in case of danger. The fry, after consuming the yolk sac, should be fed rotifers or brine shrimp nauplii until they can feed on small pellets or pulverized commercial feed.
One important aspect is that the pair will continue to protect the fry during the first few weeks, until the small fish can fend for themselves.
In short, the bluegill is a fascinating species both for its beauty and its behavior. Although it requires certain specific care, its reproduction in captivity and its territorial attitude make it an excellent choice for aquarists with some experience, who are looking for an active and peculiar fish for their aquarium.