Sheepshead Acara (Laetacara curviceps) is an intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 30 gallons and 72-80°F. A small, calm South American dwarf cichlid with a tan to bluish body and a dark side spot. It is a good fit for a planted community tank with gentle, similar-sized fish, and a bonded pair will clean a flat stone or leaf and guard the eggs.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Laetacara curviceps |
|---|---|
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Origin | Amazon basin, South America |
| Adult size | 3-3.5 in |
| Minimum tank | 30 gallons |
| Temperature | 72-80°F |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 |
| Temperament | Peaceful for a cichlid, pairs defend a territory when breeding |
| Social behavior | Pair or small group in a large tank |
| Swim level | Bottom to mid |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Omnivore: small cichlid pellets, frozen foods, flakes |
| Typical lifespan | 5-8 years |
Quick tips
- Keep a pair rather than several males.
- Very small fish and fry may be eaten, so choose tankmates of similar size.
- Provide a flat rock or cave for spawning and keep the water clean.
San Diego water
Captive-bred stock usually adapts to San Diego tap water with slow acclimation. For best color and health, many keepers blend tap with RO/DI water. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi