They enjoy slightly soft and acidic water, but are generally tolerant of a range of conditions.

Flag acaras are ideal for communities with other peaceful Amazon fish, such as tetras and apistos.

Flag acaras are commonly kept in aquariums though they were more popular in the past; nowadays other dwarf cichlids like apistos and rams have become favorites Flag acaras will pair up at a very young age, as small as one and a half inches.

After five to seven days of being wigglers, the fish have almost completely consumed their yolk sacs and become free swimming.

If fearful for their brood's safety, the parents pick up the fry in their mouth and move them across the tank.