The Blue Acara is a good introduction to the medium sized Cichlids of this type. Whilst territorial, the fish are generally tolerant of others and unless breeding, when they become very defensive, they are generally peaceful. The fish form pairs, and it is best to keep them this way. For aquariums up to 90cm, a single pair is best to avoid fights should one pair decide to breed.
Blue Acaras are adaptable to a wide range of conditions and can even be kept in cool water. In nature the fish feeds on insects, aquatic animals and crustaceans, so the addition of live or frozen meaty foods like bloodworm will be of benefit. Because of their size and diet, good filtration and monitoring of nitrates is essential. Hardy plants may be ignored, but other vegetation may be damaged. Whilst the fish prefer a sandy or fine substrate, they can be kept in almost any aquarium with a few hiding places.
When purchasing beware of another cichlid, the Green Terror (Aequidens rivulatus) which can look very similar when young, but will mature to be much more aggressive.