Common Name: Albino Threadfin Acara Cichlid
Scientific Name: Acarichthys heckelii "Albino"
Other Names: Albino Threadfin Geophagus, Albino Heckelii
The Albino Threadfin Acara Cichlid is a captivating variant of the standard Threadfin Acara. It is characterized by its striking albino coloration, which includes a pale, creamy body and the distinctive red or pink eyes typical of albinism. This fish retains the elegant, elongated fins and graceful swimming style of its non-albino counterpart, making it a visually appealing addition to aquariums.
Habitat and Distribution:
The typical Threadfin Acara, Acarichthys heckelii, is native to the Amazon River Basin in South America. However, the albino variant is primarily the result of selective breeding in captivity and does not occur naturally in the wild.
Size and Lifespan:
Albino Threadfin Acara Cichlids can reach a size of about 6-8 inches in captivity. With proper care, they have a lifespan of around 8-10 years.
Diet and Behavior:
This species is omnivorous and can be fed a balanced diet that includes high-quality cichlid pellets, frozen foods like brine shrimp and bloodworms, as well as vegetable matter. They are known for their peaceful demeanor but may show territorial behavior during breeding.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Breeding the Albino Threadfin Acara is similar to the standard variety. They are substrate spawners, and the male and female will work together to care for their eggs and fry. A flat rock or a cleared spot on the substrate often serves as the spawning site.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
A minimum of a 50-gallon tank is recommended. The aquarium should have a soft substrate, plenty of hiding spaces with rocks and driftwood, and open swimming areas. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH levels and warm water. Plants can be added, but robust species are recommended as they may dig around the substrate.
Ideal Tank Mates:
They can be kept with other peaceful to semi-aggressive fish of similar size. Avoid housing them with small, timid fish or aggressive species. Other South American cichlids, larger tetras, and catfish can be suitable companions.
Difficulty Level:
Intermediate. Their care requirements are manageable for hobbyists with some experience in keeping cichlids.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 76-84°F (24-29°C)
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pH: 6.0 - 7.5
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General Hardness (GH): 5-15 dGH
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Carbonate Hardness (KH): 3-8 dKH
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Ammonia: 0 ppm
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Nitrite: 0 ppm
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Nitrate: <20 ppm
Additional Information:
- Albino fish, including the Albino Threadfin Acara, may be more sensitive to bright lighting due to the lack of protective pigmentation in their eyes.
- Regular water changes are important to maintain water quality, especially given their tendency to dig and disturb the substrate.
