Species profile
Port Acara
Cichlasoma portalegrense
Semi aggressive
Moderate care
200 L minimum aquarium
12–16 cm adult size
Bottom–mid
Minimum group: 2
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
A southern South American cichlid that does not need permanent 28°C heat. Give a pair a four-foot-class footprint and robust décor.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
18–26 °C
pH
6–7.5
GH
3–12 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low–moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 2
Tank zone
Bottom–mid
Territory level
High
Predation risk
Small fish
Bioload factor
2.5
Relatively manageable medium cichlid outside breeding, but a pair becomes strongly territorial and will excavate around a spawning site.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Caution
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
Yes
Digs substrate
Yes
Jump risk
Low
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
8–12 years
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
200 L
Minimum footprint
120 × 45 cm
Accepted scientific name
Cichlasoma portalegrense
Alternative names
Port Acara, Port Cichlid
Native range
Laguna dos Patos and Tramandaí drainage systems of southern Brazil.
Natural habitat
Slow rivers, lagoons and vegetated marginal waters with sand/mud, roots, wood and seasonal temperature variation.
Diet & feeding
Benthic invertebrates, small aquatic animals and plant/detrital material; feed varied cichlid pellets with frozen foods and vegetable matter.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Adult males usually become larger with more extended dorsal/anal fins; females are smaller and fuller around spawning.
Breeding
Biparental substrate spawner. A pair cleans a flat rock or excavated site and both adults guard eggs and fry.