Laetacara Dorsigera

Datasheet

General Description

Laetacara dorsigera, commonly known as the Redbreast Acara, is a species within the Cichlidae family. It is a small fish with a maximum size of about 3.7cm. The genus Laetacara contains seven valid species, with L. dorsigera being distinguishable by its scales, fin markings, and body proportions.

Aquarium Setup

Laetacara dorsigera thrives in aquariums with water hardness ranging from 36-268ppm, pH levels between 5.0-7.5, and temperatures maintained at 20-28°C. Regular meals of small live and frozen foods should be provided, alongside high-quality dried flakes and granules, some of which should include plant matter. For more details on aquarium setup, refer to the table provided.

Behaviour

Being a peaceful species, L. dorsigera is suitable for community tanks. It exhibits typical cichlid behavior, displaying interesting social interactions within its habitat.

Feeding and Diet

In the wild, Redbreast Acaras forage on algae, detritus, insects, worms, crustaceans, and zooplankton. In an aquarium setting, they readily accept various foods like bloodworms, Daphnia, Artemia, and high-quality flakes and granules with plant or algal content.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

L. dorsigera is a biparental substrate spawner. Breeding males and females exhibit distinct coloration with red cheeks, opercula, and belly. This species shows interesting breeding behaviors and parental care post-spawning.

Habitat and Distribution

The Redbreast Acara is found in the Rio Guaporé in Bolivia, western Brazil, the Paraná drainage system in southern Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina, as well as the Rio Uruguay in Rio Grande do Sul state, southern Brazil. Various populations may display differences in color patterns within these regions. The type locality is identified as 'Villa Maria, Río Paraguay, South America.'

Note: Refer to the table for specific water condition requirements.