Albino Threadfin Geophagus
Albino Threadfin Geophagus
Albino Threadfin Geophagus (Acarichthys heckelii) is the albino form of the Threadfin Acara, a striking eartheater-type cichlid named for the long, threadlike extensions on its dorsal fin. The albino has a pale pink-white body, red eyes, and pale fins edged in orange. Unlike Geophagus, Threadfins are cave spawners that dig pits and burrows under rocks and wood. The species comes from the Amazon basin and the Guianas.
Geophagus need a soft, fine sand substrate — gravel damages their gills and prevents natural feeding. They are peaceful, social cichlids that look best in a group of 4–6 in a long tank with open sand, driftwood, and smooth rocks. Because they sift constantly, rooted plants are often uprooted; Anubias, Java fern, and potted plants work best. Threadfins are cave and burrow spawners that dig extensively, so secure rocks on the tank bottom.
Good tankmates include medium to large peaceful fish such as larger tetras, Corydoras, plecos, Severums, Angelfish, and Discus-tolerant species. Avoid very small fish that may be eaten and aggressive Central American cichlids.
Feeding & Care Tip: Eartheaters feed by taking mouthfuls of sand and filtering out food. Offer small sinking foods such as Hikari Sinking Wafers and a quality sinking pellet, plus Hikari Frozen Bloodworms, Hikari Frozen Baby Brine Shrimp, and Hikari Frozen Daphnia several times a week.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Temperament | Peaceful (large) |
| Adult Size | 8 in (20 cm) |
| Group Size | 4–6+ |
| Minimum Tank Size | 75 gallons |
| Ideal Temperature | 78–86°F (26–30°C) |
| Ideal pH | 5.5–7.0 |
| Ideal GH | 2–12 dGH |
| Staple Food | Small sinking pellets, Hikari Sinking Wafers |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen Bloodworms, Baby Brine Shrimp, Daphnia |
| Lifespan | 8–10+ years |
| Origin | Farm-raised (species native to the Amazon basin & Guianas) |
| Notes | Fine sand substrate essential. Sifts sand constantly — plant in pots or use epiphytes. Keep in groups. |
