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Threadfin Acara – What You Need To Know
Also known as Threadfin Acara. A mid sized South American cichlid that has stunning colors to offer.
Classification Info
Scientific name: Acarichthys heckelii
Higher classification: Acarichthys
Order: Cichliformes
Max Size
About 7-8 inches (200 mm)
As juveniles, the Threadfin Acara has subtle colors that will grow darker and more prominent after 2-4 years when they reach sexual maturity. The beauty of this cichlid is the iridescent colors that shimmer in the light. This cichlid is found on the Amazon river and isn’t aggressive until it reaches it’s breeding size. At that point, you’ll want to make sure you have a large enough aquarium to house multiple Threadfin’s without the aggression going to the point of your other fish dying. Other’s have had success with breeding pairs in aquariums that are larger than 220 gallons without the full on aggression levels taking over.
Juvenile Threadfin Acara 
Threadfin Acara reaching sexual maturity
Another cool thing about them is they are part of the “earth eater” group where they will sift through the sands in your tanks searching for little morsels of food. Hopefully you don’t mind the rearranging they will do to your tank because it’s a battle to keep decor and plants in one place.
If you are bored of African Cichlids, need a change of pace and have the aquarium size for them, these guys are highly recommended. They recognize when it’s time eat and will follow you around the tank until you relent with some snacks.
Watch Them In Action
