American Cichlid – Heckelii Threadfin Acara – 5cm

Heckelii Threadfin Acara Cichlid: A Stunning and Peaceful Aquarium Star

The Heckelii Threadfin Acara Cichlid (Acarichthys heckelii) is a breathtaking freshwater fish admired for its flowing fins and shimmering body. With their calm temperament and striking appearance, they are a perfect choice for aquarists seeking beauty and tranquillity. These fish thrive in large aquariums and add graceful movement and colour to your setup. When cared for properly, they become the centrepiece of any tank.

Tank Setup for Heckelii Threadfin Acara Cichlids

To provide the best environment, use a tank of at least 300 liters. A sandy substrate allows them to dig and forage naturally. Include driftwood, rocks, and live plants to mimic their South American habitat. These elements also provide hiding spots, reducing stress. Maintain water temperatures between 24°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Strong filtration and regular water changes are essential for keeping them healthy.

Diet and Feeding

Heckelii Threadfin Acara Cichlids thrive on a varied diet. Offer high-quality cichlid pellets or flakes as their main food. Supplement with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia to enhance their health and vibrant colours. Blanched vegetables, such as zucchini or spinach, provide additional nutrients and aid digestion. A balanced diet ensures they remain active, healthy, and radiant.

Behaviour and Tank Mates

These cichlids are peaceful and compatible with other non-aggressive species. Suitable tank mates include Silver Dollars, Geophagus species, Severums, and Plecos. However, avoid aggressive or territorial fish to maintain harmony. By providing plenty of open swimming areas and hiding spots, you reduce stress and encourage their natural behaviours. When paired with the right companions, they create a lively yet peaceful tank environment.

Breeding Heckelii Threadfin Acara Cichlids

Breeding these cichlids is a rewarding experience. They are substrate spawners, laying eggs on flat surfaces like rocks or driftwood. Both parents exhibit strong protective instincts, guarding their eggs and fry. To encourage breeding, maintain stable water parameters and provide suitable spawning surfaces. Feed the fry baby brine shrimp or finely crushed flakes to support healthy development and ensure they grow strong.

FAQs

How big do Heckelii Threadfin Acara Cichlids grow?
They grow up to 20 cm, making a spacious tank necessary for their comfort and activity.

Are they aggressive?
Generally peaceful, they may show mild territorial behaviour during breeding.

What tank mates are suitable?
Good companions include Silver Dollars, Geophagus species, Severums, and Plecos. Avoid pairing them with aggressive fish.

What do they eat?
Their diet includes cichlid pellets, live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, and occasional vegetables like spinach or zucchini.

How do they breed?
They are substrate spawners. Both parents actively guard their eggs and fry, showing strong protective instincts.

Are they beginner-friendly?
Due to their size and specific care needs, they are better suited for intermediate or experienced aquarists.

How big do Thread Finned Acaras get?
They grow to 15-20cm, much larger than the juvenile size you purchase.

Are Thread Finned Acaras aggressive?
They’re generally peaceful but will eat smaller sh and can be territorial when breeding.

What tank size do adult Thread Finned Acaras need?
Minimum 400 litres for a breeding pair due to their adult size and bioload.

Species Overview

• Species: Acarichthys heckelii
• Common Name: Heckelii Threadfin Acara Cichlid
• Origin: South America
• Diet: Omnivore
• PH Range: 6.0–7.5
• Temperature: 24°C–28°C
• Max Size: Up to 20 cm
• Tank Size: Minimum 300 liters

South American Cichlid Care

Size & Tank Requirements:

• Adult size: 15-20cm (much larger than juvenile)
• Minimum tank: 400 litres for adult pair
• Growth timeline: Reaches adult size in 18-24 months
• Tank shape: Prefer longer tanks over tall tanks

Water & Environment:

• Temperature: 24-28°C
• pH: 6.0-7.0, soft to moderately soft water
• Filtration: Excellent ltration required – they’re messy
• Water changes: 30-40% weekly due to high bioload

Feeding Guide:

• Diet: Omnivorous – high-quality cichlid pellets, live foods
• Feeding schedule: 2-3 times daily for juveniles, once daily for adults
• Live foods: Bloodworms, brine shrimp, small sh
• Protein: Higher protein diet when young, more varied when mature

Breeding Information:

• Breeding age: 18-24 months when sexually mature
• Pair formation: Allow sh to choose partners naturally
• Spawning: Open spawners, both parents care for eggs
• Parental care: Excellent parents, will guard fry for weeks

Tank Mate Guide

South American Cichlid Community Setup:

• Compatible: Other peaceful large cichlids, large catsh, robust tetras
• Avoid: Small sh (will be eaten), aggressive cichlids, delicate plants
• Best companions: Other acaras, geophagus, large plecos
• Territory: Peaceful but will defend breeding territory

South American Cichlid Essentials

• South American cichlids
• Large aquarium filters
• Cichlid-specic foods
• Large aquarium decorations