Identification
A rounded forehead and stout body give Black Acara a bream-like outline. The central blotch is larger than the one near the tail base, and the underlying color can vary considerably.
Size and Weight
Florida’s species account reports maximum size around 8 inches and weight around 4 ounces. These are regional descriptive limits, not certified world records. The weight is approximately 113 g.
Habitat and Natural Food
In Florida it is particularly associated with shallow, still ditches and similarly disturbed habitat. Larger canals and lakes are less typical. Examined stomachs contained fish remains, aquatic insects, snails, plants and organic debris, indicating a mixed diet.
Fishing and Breeding
Small ponds with few predators can support a children’s fishery for this species. No particular best bait is established in the verified account. Adults can reproduce through much of the year in warm Florida conditions, and both parents protect their young.
Two Parents on Watch
The shared care of the young is one of Black Acara’s most engaging behaviors. Observing a pair with a group of small fish reveals a family association that is easy to overlook when identifying only the adults.
All Lakes With Black Acara
Browse all lakes and reservoirs with confirmed Black Acara records in our database, listed alphabetically.
No published lakes are currently linked to this species in our confirmed records.