Threadfin acara

Heckel's threadfin acara is an elegant, deep-bodied cichlid from the Amazon and Essequibo basins, distinguished by extended dorsal filaments and a dark flank blotch. It lives over sandy and leaf-littered substrates in slow rivers and floodplain lakes, sifting sand for invertebrates and detritus. Reaching about 20 cm, it needs a roomy tank of at least 250 litres with a soft sand bed, driftwood and open swimming space; it is a keen digger that rearranges the substrate. Generally peaceful outside breeding but territorial when spawning, it suits large soft-water communities with robust tankmates. Keep warm, soft, slightly acidic water: 25-30C, pH 6.0-7.5. Feed a varied omnivore diet of sinking pellets, frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp and occasional vegetable matter. It is a fascinating cave-brooding, colony-forming species.