Albino Threadfin Acara

The Albino Acarichthys heckelii (Albino Threadfin Acara) is a striking South American cichlid native to the Amazon and Orinoco river basins. Reaching 6 to 8 inches (15–20 cm) in length, this peaceful "earth-eater" cichlid is prized for its creamy-pink body, glowing red eyes, and elegant, flowing fin extensions.

Key Care & Aquarium Requirements

• Tank Size:
  At least 55 gallons for a pair or small group, though 75+ gallons is recommended to accommodate their size and swimming habits.
  [Source: 1, 2]

• Water Parameters:
  They thrive in tropical temperatures of 76–82°F (24–28°C), a pH of 6.0–7.5, and soft to moderately hard water.
  [Source: 1]

• Substrate & Decor:
  These fish are natural sand-sifters and diggers. Provide:

  • A fine sand substrate
  • Driftwood
  • Rocks

  Due to their digging behavior, uprooted plants are common, so it’s best to use hardy or potted plants.
  [Source: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

• Diet:
  Omnivorous. They accept a wide variety of high-quality:

  • Flakes
  • Pellets
  • Frozen or live meaty foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp.

• Temperament & Tankmates:
  Generally peaceful and graceful swimmers compared to other large cichlids. They do well in larger community tanks with peaceful to semi-aggressive fish of similar size.
  
  

Sexing & Breeding

• Sex Differences:
  Males tend to develop longer, more elaborate dorsal and anal fin extensions ("threads") and exhibit slightly more intense coloration than females.

• Breeding Behavior:
  They are cave spawners and practice strong parental care, often digging intricate, long tunnels for their eggs.