Description
Scientific Name: Acarichthys heckelii (Albino variant) Common Names: Albino Threadfin Acara, Albino Heckel’s Cichlid, Elbow Cichlid Origin: The species is native to the Amazon Basin (Brazil, Peru, Colombia), though the Albino variant is captive-bred.
Physical Characteristics This fish is admired for its “angelic” appearance combined with cichlid robustness.
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The “Threadfins”: The most iconic feature is the soft dorsal fin rays that grow into long, flowing streamers or filaments. In mature adults, these can extend well past the tail, often tipped in red or orange.
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Coloration: As a true albino, it lacks dark pigment. The body is a shimmering pearl-white to rich gold. Under good lighting, the fins often display iridescent pearly spotting.
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Eyes: It possesses distinct pink or bright red eyes.
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Size: They are a medium-to-large cichlid, growing to about 6 to 8 inches (15–20 cm) in length.
Behavior and Temperament
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The “Earth Eater”: Although not a true Geophagus, they share the “earth-eating” behavior. They constantly sift through the substrate, taking mouthfuls of sand to filter out food particles and spitting the clean sand back out.
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Temperament: They are generally peaceful for a cichlid of this size. They can be territorial with their own kind, but they usually ignore other fish that are too big to eat. They make great tank mates for Severums, Geophagus, and Uaru.
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Swimming: They usually inhabit the bottom and middle levels of the tank.
Care and Habitat
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Substrate: Sand is mandatory. Gravel can damage their delicate gills and mouths when they sift for food. Soft, fine sand allows them to exhibit their natural behavior safely.
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Tank Size: A minimum of 55 gallons is required for a single specimen, but 75+ gallons is better for a group or community.
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Diet: They are omnivores. They need sinking pellets (since they feed off the bottom) and love frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp.
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