Threadfin Acara - (Acarichthys Heckelii)

🐟 Threadfin Acara – (Acarichthys heckelii) – Elegant South American Cichlid for Sale

The Threadfin Acara (Acarichthys heckelii) is a graceful and peaceful South American cichlid admired for its long, flowing fin extensions and shimmering silver-gold body accented with subtle red markings. Native to the Amazon Basin, this species is often found in slow-moving waters and sandy-bottom habitats. Its calm temperament, striking finnage, and compatibility with other peaceful fish make it a favorite for planted or community aquariums. When kept in good water conditions and a spacious tank, Threadfin Acaras display their best colors and full fin extensions.

🔎 Quick Facts – Threadfin Acara (Acarichthys heckelii)

• 📛 Common Name: Threadfin Acara, Heckel’s Threadfin Acara
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Acarichthys heckelii
• 🌍 Origin: Amazon Basin (Brazil, Peru, Guyana)
• 🎨 Appearance: Silver-gold body with delicate red speckling; elongated thread-like extensions on dorsal and tail fins
• 📏 Max Size: 8–10 inches (20–25 cm)
• 💎 Availability: Occasionally available; prized for elegant appearance and peaceful nature

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• 🤝 Peaceful for a cichlid; compatible with medium-sized peaceful species
• 🐟 Best kept in small groups or pairs
• 🌿 Sifts sand through its gills while foraging for food

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 55+ gallons
• 🪵 Provide sandy substrate to allow natural feeding behavior
• 🌿 Decorate with driftwood, smooth rocks, and hardy plants
• 💡 Moderate lighting enhances metallic and red coloration

💧 Water Parameters – Threadfin Acara Care

• 🌡️ Temperature: 76–82°F (24–28°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 6.0–7.5
• 💧 Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water

🍽️ Diet – Omnivorous Cichlid

• 🐟 High-quality cichlid pellets and flakes
• 🦐 Frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and mysis shrimp
• 🌽 Vegetable matter and spirulina-based foods for variety

📋 Threadfin Acara Overview Table

✨ Highlight:
The Threadfin Acara is a beautiful, peaceful cichlid with elegant flowing fins and shimmering colors, making it a standout in planted or peaceful community aquariums.