Thread Fin Acara
Thread Fin Acara
Thread Fin Acara (Acarichthys heckelii) is a spectacular and rarely seen South American cichlid with dramatic elongated thread-like fin extensions on the dorsal and caudal fins of adult males — combined with vivid iridescent blue-green body scaling and a bold black lateral spot. One of the most beautiful cichlids available.
Feeding & Care Tip: Hikari Cichlid Bio-Gold makes an excellent primary staple — Hikari Micro Pellets as backup. Supplement 2–3× per week with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms or Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Brine Shrimp. Feed 2–3 times daily in amounts consumed within a few minutes.
Native to Amazon and Orinoco basins, South America. A planted aquarium with caves, driftwood, and soft slightly acidic water produces the best coloration and most natural behavior.
Keep as a pair with one or two females. Flat or cave surface spawner with devoted biparental care.
A rewarding and often spectacular South American cichlid.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Easy — Moderate |
| Temperament | Peaceful — community cichlid |
| Typical Adult Size | 8.0 inches (20 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | Pair |
| Ideal Temp | 75–82°F (24–28°C) |
| Ideal pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Ideal GH | 2–12 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 0–6 dKH |
| Staple Food | Hikari Cichlid Bio-Gold; Hikari Micro Pellets |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms; Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Brine Shrimp |
| Origin | Amazon and Orinoco basins, South America |
| Notes | Dramatic elongated thread fin extensions in adult males. Vivid iridescent blue-green scaling. Bold black lateral spot. Rarely available. |
