Albino Thread-Finned Acara (Acarichthys heckelii – Albino Morph)
Acarichthys heckelii
Common names: Thread-Finned Acara, Heckel’s Acara, Albino Heckelii
 
Overview
The Albino Thread-Finned Acara is a selectively bred colour morph of Acarichthys heckelii, a graceful South American cichlid known for its long trailing fin filaments and peaceful temperament. Albino variants show creamy white to golden bodies, red eyes, and enhanced yellow and red fin highlights, especially as adults.
Despite their size, they are relatively peaceful for a cichlid, making them suitable for spacious community aquaria with other medium-to-large non-aggressive species.
 
Distribution
Natural form originates from Amazon Basin, especially Brazil and Peru.
Albino morph is captive-bred.
 
Size
Up to 20–25 cm (8–10 inches) in adulthood.
 
Lifespan
Typically 7–10 years with proper care.
 
Behaviour & Temperament
Generally peaceful for a cichlid; may defend territory when spawning.
Enjoy sifting substrate for food—similar to geophagus behaviour but less intense.
Do best in groups or pairs, but can also be kept singly.
 
Aquarium Requirements
Tank Size
Minimum 350–400 L for a pair or trio.
Larger tanks recommended if kept with other medium/large fish.
 
Water Parameters
Temperature: 26–30°C
pH: 6.0–7.5
Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (2–12 dGH)
 
Substrate & Décor
Soft sand is strongly recommended to support natural sifting behaviour.
Add driftwood, leaf litter, and smooth rocks.
Provide open swimming space plus shaded areas.
 
Filtration
High-quality filtration; this species is sensitive to poor water quality.
Moderate but steady flow.
 
Diet
Omnivorous:
High-quality pellets
Frozen foods (bloodworm, brine shrimp, mysis)
Live foods
Occasional vegetable matter or spirulina
Enjoys small invertebrates sifted from substrate
Feed 2–3 small meals daily.
 
Tankmates
Compatible with:
Larger peaceful tetras
Corydoras (in big tanks)
Geophagus species
Severums
Rainbowfish
Peaceful catfish (L-numbers, whiptails, etc.)
Avoid:
Aggressive cichlids (jack dempsey, GT, convicts)
Fin-nippers
Tiny fish that may be swallowed when adults
Breeding
Substrate–spawning species.
Form monogamous pairs.
Lay eggs on a cleaned flat surface (stone/driftwood).
Both parents guard fry.
Albino form breeds the same as wild-type heckelii.
 
Care Level
Intermediate
Main challenges:
Large adult size
Sensitivity to poor water conditions
Need for soft sand and stable warm temperatures