Uaru Fernandez Yepesi

🐟 Uaru fernandezyepezi — Original Care Guide

Uaru fernandezyepezi, sometimes referred to as the "Royal Uaru" or “True Uaru,” is a large, deep-bodied South American cichlid prized for its regal appearance, intelligent behavior, and rarity in the aquarium trade. Native to blackwater tributaries of the upper Orinoco River, this species requires careful environmental control, a spacious tank, and a diet that balances protein and plant matter. For the dedicated aquarist, this cichlid offers an unmatched combination of grace, personality, and beauty.

🌍 Natural Habitat

• Region: Orinoco River basin (Venezuela, Colombia)

• Environment: Slow-moving blackwater creeks with tannin-stained waters, dense root structures, and minimal vegetation

• Substrate: Fine sand or silt with decomposing organic material

• Wild Behavior: Grazes on biofilm and detritus, typically seen in loose pairs or small groups

🏠 Aquarium Setup

• Minimum Tank Size: 120 gallons for a pair; 180+ gallons for a group

• Substrate: Soft sand or smooth gravel to protect delicate fins and promote natural grazing

• Aquascape:

  • Driftwood and leaf litter to simulate blackwater conditions

  • Low-light plants like Anubias or Java fern (attached to décor only; rooted plants may be disturbed)

• Filtration: Heavy-duty filtration with additional biological media — this species is sensitive to waste buildup

• Lighting: Dim to moderate; floating plants or tinted water reduce stress

• Water Movement: Minimal current, high oxygenation

🌡️ Water Parameters

• Temperature: 80–86°F (27–30°C)

• pH: 5.5–6.8 — slightly acidic preferred

• Hardness: Soft to very soft (1–6 dGH)

• Water Changes: 30–50% weekly with pre-warmed, aged water

• Additional Notes: Like many blackwater species, Uaru fernandezyepezi is sensitive to sudden changes in pH or temperature

🍽️ Feeding & Nutrition

This species is naturally omnivorous, but leans toward herbivory, requiring a mixed diet of plant and protein sources.

• Staple Diet:

  • Sinking omnivore pellets or soft wafers

  • Spirulina-based foods

• Fresh Foods:

  • Blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach, peas)

  • Occasional fresh fruits (e.g., melon, cucumber — in moderation)

• Protein Sources:

  • Bloodworms or brine shrimp (frozen or live)

  • Feed animal protein sparingly — too much can cause digestive issues

• Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times daily in small portions

🤝 Temperament & Social Behavior

• Disposition: Peaceful, deliberate, and intelligent

• Social Behavior: Best kept in pairs or small groups (3–6 individuals)

• Tankmates:

  • Peaceful South American species like Severum, Heros, Geophagus, or Festivum

  • Mid-size characins (e.g., bleeding heart tetras)

  • Avoid aggressive or fast, boisterous tankmates

• Caution: This species becomes territorial when breeding but rarely displays sustained aggression

🐣 Breeding Behavior

• Reproduction Style: Biparental substrate spawner

• Spawning Behavior:

  • Pairs will clean a flat stone or driftwood surface to lay eggs

  • Both parents guard eggs and fry with exceptional dedication

• Fry Rearing:

  • Eggs hatch in 2–3 days; free-swimming in 5–7 days

  • Feed fry with infusoria, then transition to baby brine shrimp

• Breeding Tips:

  • Requires soft, acidic water and low disturbance

  • Parental care is typically strong, but inexperienced pairs may eat their first few spawns

⚠️ Special Considerations

• Not for Beginners: This species is sensitive to water quality and requires a mature, stable aquarium

• Requires Plant Matter: A diet too rich in protein can lead to bloating or intestinal issues

• Long Acclimation: Slowly adjust wild-caught individuals to captive water parameters over several hours or days

• Rarity and Expense: Due to scarcity, each specimen should be treated as a long-term investment and cared for accordingly

📋 Quick Reference Table

📝 Final Thoughts

Uaru fernandezyepezi is a captivating species that rewards patience and attention to detail. With the right care, they display not only exceptional physical beauty but also impressive intelligence and strong social bonds. For aquarists seeking a rare centerpiece species with personality and depth, this fish is among the finest the Amazon has to offer