Acarichthys heckelii
Albino Threadfin Acara
Albino Threadfin Acara
Low stock: 5 left
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Remarks: These rare variants of threadfin acara have the albinism mutation resulting in a very unique looking fish when compared to the traditional threadfin acara. Instead of their usual coloration, these fish have bright white/cream bodies along with vibrant yellows, reds, and oranges in their fins and faces. This coloration truly makes them stand out and add a unique splash of bright color especially when kept on a dark background and substrate. Due to being albino, they are more sensitive to light so their lighting should be kept a bit more subdued and a dark hiding spot should be provided.
Threadfin acaras are large, elegant South American cichlids that are a favorite amongst cichlid enthusiasts. They are large enough to hold their own against most other larger South American cichlids and are not terribly aggressive unless spawning. Most end up becoming very personable too, begging for food anytime people come near their tank. Threadfin acaras show some incredible colors when mature with reds and blues across their silver iridescent bodies and fins that is made only better by the elegant thread-like streamers on the fins of males. Between their beautiful looks and entertaining personalities, it isn't hard to see why these fish have become so popular.
In the wild, threadfin acaras can be found in habitats similar to those of most Geophagus; calm, clean, warm, soft, acidic water with a sandy substrate covered in fallen branches. Also similar to Geophagus, they will dig around in the sand in search of food though not to as much of an extreme extent. Being omnivores, they will feed on any meat or vegetation they can find. Despite being similar in behavior, native range, diet, and shape, threadfin acaras are not Geophagus. Instead they are acaras and behave like such in that they will form pairs rather than stay in groups once mature. Interestingly, it is the female fish that prepare spawning burrows and work to attract males rather than the typical set up of the males doing the courtship work. Pairs will become far more territorial and aggressive upon spawning as both work to defend their eggs and fry. This behavior is why while a 90 gallon is enough for a pair of threadfin acaras, a much larger tank of 125 gallons or more is needed if wanting to house them in a community set up.
Providing conditions similar to that of their wild habitat as well as a spawning cave like a flower pot is the best way to encourage spawning among captive threadfin acaras. If breeding is not the goal, things such as pH and hardness do not need to be paid as much close attention to as they are fairly adaptable and tend to be tolerable when it comes to water parameters. This is due to the fact that almost all available in the hobby these days come from lines that have been in captivity for many generations. While they can hold their own against cichlids of similar size fairly well, threadfin acaras should not be kept with fish that are notably nippy as there is the risk of their beautiful threadfins being nipped off. Not only does this ruin the namesake of the fish, but it leaves open wounds that can become infected. Otherwise, they can be kept with many other South American species so long as those tank mates are not small enough to be swallowed.
Animal Data
Animal Data
- Native to: South America
- Breeding: Tank-raised in Indonesia
- Max adult size: 7-8"
- Diet: Omnivore
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive
- Care skill: Beginner
Tank Parameters
Tank Parameters
- Temp range: 76°F - 86°F
- pH range: 6.0 - 8.0
- TDS range: 15 ppm - 200 ppm
- Min Tank Size:
Shipping Info
Shipping Info
We provide premium next day air shipping at affordable flat rates to minimize transit time for the health of the fish.
| US Zone 1 | UPS Next Day Air | $39.99 |
| US Zone 2 | UPS Next Day Air | $49.99 |
| US Zone 3 | UPS Next Day Air | $59.99 |
| US Zone 4 | UPS Next Day Air | $69.99 |
| Puerto Rico, Hawaii, Alaska | UPS 1-2 Day Air | Starts at $89.99 |
| Canada | UPS 1-2 Day Air | Starts at $89.99 |
| Florida | UPS Next Day Ground | $19.99 |
| Local pickup | Select at checkout | No charge |
| No overseas shipping | ||
Minimum order for all shipping is $50 for mainland US, $100 elsewhere. Saturday delivery available for an extra $30. Shipping to Alaska and Canada is not flat rate and can be subject to additional fees based on location.
Important order and shipping info
Allow 2-4 business days to process and pack your order. You will receive a notification when it actually ships. Order cancellations are subject to a 10% restocking fee. Order changes cannot be made. However, if you wish to add to your order within 24 hours, you may place a second order with a request to combine the shipments. We will do our best to accommodate, however once an order is packaged and sealed it cannot be reopened.
Your order is covered by our Healthy & Happy Arrival Guarantee.
Why buy from us?
Our Healthy & Happy Arrival guarantee
We've been packing and shipping live fish for over 50 years. When you buy from us, you get the healthiest stock and most experienced live fish shipping in the industry. So you know you won't be disappointed!
Will my fish look like the picture?
The majority of fish on our website will NOT look like their photos upon their unboxing. Fish change in appearance depending on many factors, including mood, age, gender, and social status. Fish will naturally lose color during shipping and may appear faded upon arrival. Pictures are used as examples only. Pictures may be of mature fish with full color or juvenile fish without color. We encourage you to research the species as much as possible prior to ordering in order to familiarize yourself with the various appearances they may take on. Many species have females that look drastically different to their male counterparts, and many juveniles will not have as much color (or different colors) as their adult forms. If you have questions about how the fish will look, please review their information and email us if you have any questions.
How do I know which fish can go together in my tank?
Research the product descriptions on our website and use Google search to help decide which fish can go together. PLEASE do your research and email us if you have any questions. Also, we have a very active Facebook group called Imperial Tropicals Fishkeepers where you can learn from knowledgable and experienced fishkeepers.
How do you ship live fish? Sounds risky!
We've been shipping live fish for over 50 years. we use specialized packaging and techniques to ensure their health. See how we do it.
How much does shipping cost?
We provide premium next day air shipping at affordable flat rates to minimize transit time for the health of the fish.
| US Zone 1 | UPS Next Day Air | $39.99 |
| US Zone 2 | UPS Next Day Air | $49.99 |
| US Zone 3 | UPS Next Day Air | $59.99 |
| US Zone 4 | UPS Next Day Air | $69.99 |
| Puerto Rico, Hawaii, Alaska | UPS 1-2 Day Air | Starts at $89.99 |
| Canada | UPS 1-2 Day Air | Starts at $89.99 |
| Florida | UPS Next Day Ground | $19.99 |
| Local pickup | Select at checkout | No charge |
| No overseas shipping | ||
Minimum order for all shipping is $50 for mainland US, $100 elsewhere. Saturday delivery available for an extra $30. Shipping to Alaska and Canada is not flat rate and can be subject to additional fees based on location.
Important order and shipping info
Allow 2-4 business days to process and pack your order. You will receive a notification when it actually ships. Order cancellations are subject to a 10% restocking fee. Order changes cannot be made. However, if you wish to add to your order within 24 hours, you may place a second order with a request to combine the shipments. We will do our best to accommodate, however once an order is packaged and sealed it cannot be reopened.
Your order is covered by our Healthy & Happy Arrival Guarantee.
When will I get my order?
We need 2-4 days to select and pack your fish, you'll get a notification when it ships along with tracking info. It will arrive the next day or day after, depending on your location. See our Shipping Policy for full info.
What if my order is delayed? Will my fish be OK?
We ship hundreds of packages a week, and most are delivered without any issues thanks to our experienced team and premium air courier service. Our high-tech packaging is designed to sustain the animals a minimum of 2-3 days in the box, and in some cases longer, depending on the breed.
However, sometimes delays do occur. If this happens to your order, please document and contact us promptly following our inspection and documentation policies above in order to receive credit.
Can I change or cancel my order after it is placed?
Orders can be changed or cancelled within 24 hours, subject to a 10% restocking fee. Shipping is stressful for the animals and we cannot open boxes once they have been prepped and packed.
Can you hold my order until my tank is ready?
We can hold for a few days, but not beyond a week as inventory changes rapidly. Please only place your order when you know you will be ready to receive them.
What if my order is missing something?
First, please check the box and packaging thoroughly. If you are sure an item is missing please contact us immediately.
Do you offer pickup on local orders?
Yes! Just specify local pickup as your shipping option in checkout and we'll let you know when it is ready.
What if a fish I receive seems dead, sick or doesn't look right?
97% of our orders arrive without an issue. But if something goes wrong, no worries! You're covered under our Healthy & Happy Arrival Guarantee