Panda Uaru – A Unique and Beautiful Cichlid for Your Aquarium
 
The Panda Uaru (Uaru fernandezyepezi) is a striking and relatively rare freshwater cichlid that is beloved for its unique appearance and calm, social nature. Known for its stunning black-and-white coloration, the Panda Uaru is a variation of the classic Uaru cichlid. They are native to the Rio Orinoco in South America and are highly sought after for their distinctive look, with a pattern that resembles the "panda" color scheme—dark markings on a lighter body, which makes them stand out in any aquarium setup.
In addition to their attractive appearance, Panda Uarus are known for their peaceful temperament, making them an excellent choice for community tanks. While they are a bit larger than some other cichlid species, they are not overly aggressive and will generally coexist peacefully with other species. Their calm nature and impressive size make them a perfect centerpiece fish for aquarists looking to create a natural, serene environment.
 
Care Requirements:
Tank Size: Minimum of 75 gallons (284 liters) for a single Panda Uaru. Due to their large size and peaceful nature, a larger tank is recommended, especially if keeping other fish with them. They appreciate having plenty of space to swim and establish their own territories.
Water Temperature: 76-82°F (24-28°C), with a stable temperature.
Water pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0 - 7.5).
Water Hardness: Soft to medium (4-12 dGH).
Filtration: Moderate to strong filtration is necessary to maintain clean water. While not as sensitive as some other cichlids, Panda Uarus are still prone to stress if the water quality isn’t kept up. Regular water changes (at least 25% weekly) are recommended to maintain a stable and healthy environment.
Diet: Omnivorous. Panda Uarus are not picky eaters and will accept a wide variety of foods. Feed them high-quality cichlid pellets, live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia, as well as occasional vegetable matter like spirulina, peas, and zucchini. A varied diet will ensure that they stay healthy and colorful.
Tankmates: Peaceful. Panda Uarus are best kept in community tanks with other non-aggressive or semi-aggressive species. They can be housed with other medium to large cichlids, such as other Uarus, peaceful South American cichlids, or large tetras. Avoid keeping with overly aggressive fish or small, delicate species that might be harassed.
Lighting: Moderate lighting will enhance their unique appearance. These cichlids don’t require strong lighting but do appreciate a well-lit environment. Providing shaded areas or hiding spots will also help them feel secure.
Schooling: While Panda Uarus are not schooling fish, they are social and enjoy the company of their own kind or peaceful tankmates. It’s best to keep them in pairs or small groups to prevent them from becoming too stressed or territorial.
Decor: Provide plenty of hiding spots, rocks, and driftwood to help mimic their natural habitat. A fine substrate, such as sand or small gravel, is ideal for this species. They will appreciate the presence of plants, but make sure to leave enough open swimming space for them to explore.
Water Quality: Panda Uarus are sensitive to poor water conditions. Keeping the water clean and stable is crucial to their well-being, so be sure to monitor parameters regularly and perform regular water changes to maintain optimal water quality.