Neocaridina Red Rili Shrimp freshwater fish for sale - Legacy Line Aquatics LLC

Threadfin Acara (Acarichthys heckelii)

$16.99
Sale price  $16.99 Regular price 
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Neocaridina Red Rili Shrimp freshwater fish for sale - Legacy Line Aquatics LLC

Threadfin Acara (Acarichthys heckelii)

$16.99
Sale price  $16.99 Regular price 

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Acarichthys heckelii, commonly called the Threadfin Acara or Heckelii, is an impressive South American cichlid known for its pearly patterning, elongated fin extensions, and earth-eating behavior. Juveniles begin relatively understated before developing stronger iridescence and graceful thread-like fin extensions with maturity.

These fish are Florida-raised supplier stock sourced at approximately 3 inches. Although often peaceful for a cichlid of their eventual size, they require considerably more room than a typical dwarf cichlid.

Threadfin Acaras naturally sift through substrate while searching for food. Fine sand is therefore an important part of their long-term care.

Why Hobbyists Love Threadfin Acaras

  • Impressive adult size and body shape
  • Pearly coloration and elongated fin extensions
  • Interesting sand-sifting behavior
  • More moderately tempered than many similarly sized cichlids
  • Excellent centerpiece for a large South American aquarium
  • Unusual burrow-oriented breeding behavior

What You’re Getting from Legacy Line Aquatics

  • Florida-raised supplier stock
  • Fish originally sourced at approximately 3 inches
  • Fish acclimated and observed for body condition and feeding response
  • No guaranteed individual sex
  • Juvenile appearance will continue changing with maturity
  • Fish clearly identified as supplier-raised rather than bred in-house
Quick Facts

  • Scientific Name: Acarichthys heckelii
  • Common Name: Threadfin Acara
  • Adult Size: Approximately 8 inches; some individuals may grow larger
  • Temperament: Generally moderate but territorial when breeding
  • Difficulty: Intermediate
  • Lifespan: Approximately 8–10+ years
  • Minimum Tank Size: 75 gallons for one or a compatible pair
  • Group Tank Size: 125 gallons or larger preferred
  • Temperature: 76–82°F
Animal Data

Temperament & Behavior

Threadfin Acaras are usually less aggressive than many large cichlids, but adult temperament varies. Pairs may become territorial while spawning. A group of juveniles may need to be separated as adults establish relationships.

Feeding

Recommended foods:

  • Quality sinking cichlid pellets
  • Krill- or fish-based pellets
  • Frozen mysis
  • Frozen or live brine shrimp
  • Chopped earthworms
  • Insect-based foods
  • Occasional spirulina-containing foods
Tank Parameters & Tankmates

Use fine sand, open bottom space, driftwood, stones, and sturdy plants around the aquarium’s edges. Strong filtration and regular water changes are important.

Tank Mates (Good Choices)

  • Peaceful Geophagus of appropriate size
  • Severums
  • Larger peaceful tetras
  • Silver dollars in sufficiently large aquariums
  • Compatible medium-sized South American cichlids
  • Appropriately sized catfish

Avoid:

  • Fish small enough to be swallowed
  • Hyper-aggressive Central American or African cichlids
  • Sharp gravel that prevents natural sifting
  • Delicate rooted plants placed in active digging areas
  • Crowding multiple adults into undersized tanks
Local orders & Shipping

Local Delivery 

  • Delivery is available within an 80-mile maximum distance from Owensboro, Kentucky.
  • $150 minimum order is required for delivery 
  • $25 delivery fee applies 

Local Meet-Up 

  • Local meet-up is available. 
  • After order we will contact you by email, or through Facebook or Instagram Messenger.
  • We will arrange a date, time, and public location to meet. 

Shipping & Live Arrival

Live fish are shipped Monday–Wednesday (weather permitting) to reduce transit risk. Please review our How Shipping Works page and DOA policy before ordering.

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