Description
Vibrant Geophagus Heckelii (Threadfin Acara) – Stunning Eartheater for sale
Bring the beauty of the Amazon into your home with the Threadfin Acara (Geophagus heckelii) for sale, one of the most elegant members of the eartheater cichlid family. Known for their fascinating behavior and striking coloration, these fish develop brilliant metallic speckling across their bodies and long, flowing extensions on their dorsal and caudal fins as they mature.
Unlike many larger cichlids, Geophagus heckelii is relatively peaceful, making them excellent candidates for large, well-maintained community tanks.
Approximate size: 2″
Key Features & Behavior
Natural Sifting Behavior: True to their name (“Earth-eaters”), they love to scoop up mouthfuls of sand, sift out micro-organisms, and expel the clean sand through their gills.
Stunning Maturity: While juveniles may appear modest, adults transform into a breathtaking display of blues, greens, and iridescent golds.
Community Friendly: They generally ignore smaller dither fish (like tetras) and cohabitate well with other peaceful medium-to-large Amazonian species.
Species Specifications
Scientific Name: Geophagus heckelii (syn. Acarichthys heckelii)
Common Name: Threadfin Acara, Heckel’s Threadfin Acara
Max Size: 7–8 inches
Minimum Tank Size: 55 gallons (75+ gallons preferred for a group)
Water Parameters: pH 6.0–7.5, Soft to Medium hardness, Temperature: 76°F–84°F
Care Guidelines
Diet: Omnivorous. Provide a varied diet of high-quality sinking pellets, flakes, and frozen foods like bloodworms or brine shrimp.
Substrate Requirement: A fine sandy substrate is mandatory. Coarse gravel can damage their delicate gills during sifting.
Aquarium Decor: Prefers plenty of open swimming space at the bottom, mixed with driftwood branches and smooth rocks to create natural territories and hiding spots.
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