Threadfin Heckelii - 3.5cm (Acarichthys heckelii) (Live Fish)
Threadfin Heckelii - 3.5cm (Acarichthys heckelii) (Live Fish) is backordered and will ship as soon as it is back in stock.
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Size, Colour & Sex
Size, Colour & Sex
Appearance & Colour
Fish may vary from the images shown. Colour, patterns, markings and fin shapes can differ naturally between individuals and may change with age, sex, stress and environmental conditions.
Size
All sizes are approximate and provided as a guide. Individual fish may be slightly larger or smaller than advertised.
Sex Requests
Want a male or female? Leave a note at checkout and we'll do our best to accommodate your request. However, we cannot guarantee a particular sex due to availability and the difficulty of sexing some species.
For customers wanting to select specific fish, we recommend visiting us in-store.
For more information, please see our Store Policies.
Acclimation Guide
Acclimation Guide
1. Prepare Your Aquarium
Make sure your aquarium is fully cycled, with 0 ammonia and 0 nitrite, and the temperature is suitable for your new fish.
2. Start Drip Acclimation
Place your fish and their transport water into a clean container. Using airline tubing, slowly drip water from your aquarium into the container at approximately 2–4 drops per second.
3. Slowly Add Aquarium Water
Over the next 30–60 minutes, allow the water volume to approximately double. This helps your fish gradually adjust to their new water conditions.
4. Transfer Your Fish
Gently net your fish into their new aquarium. Avoid adding transport water to your tank.
5. Give Them Time to Settle
Keep the aquarium lights off for a few hours and wait until the following day before feeding.
Important: Arrived with an issue?
If any fish arrive dead (DOA), keep the transport bag sealed and contact us within 24 hours with clear photos of the fish inside the unopened bag.
See our DOA Policy for more information.
Delivery & Shipping
Delivery & Shipping
Important: Live Fish Delivery
Please provide accurate contact details and ensure someone is available to receive your fish. This is essential for their safe arrival.
Shipping Costs
We offer discounted shipping on larger livestock orders, with FREE shipping on orders over $400!
Live Fish Shipping Rates
Under $150: $39.95
$150–$249.99: $29.95
$250–$349.99: $19.95
$350–$399.99: $9.95
$400+: FREE SHIPPING
Please view our shipping policy for more information.
The Threadfin Heckelii is a striking freshwater cichlid with a silvery to golden body accented by dark vertical markings and subtle blue-green iridescence. Its elongated body, pointed head, and extended dorsal and anal fins give it an elegant, distinctive appearance.
Common names: Threadfin Acara, Heckel's Threadfin Acara, Threadfin Cichlid, Threadfin Eartheater
Scientific name: Acarichthys heckelii
Approximate size: 15–20 cm
Temperament: Generally peaceful to semi-aggressive; can become territorial during breeding
Recommended tank size: 300 L+
Diet: Omnivorous/micro-predatory; sinking pellets, flakes, brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, and other small foods
Origin: Amazon and Essequibo River basins in Brazil, Peru, Colombia, and Guyana
Basic care information: A distinctive South American eartheater known for the long, thread-like extensions on the dorsal fin of mature males. Provide a spacious aquarium with a deep layer of fine sand for natural sifting, along with driftwood, roots, rocks, and hiding areas. Maintain stable temperatures around 24–30°C and pH around 6.0–7.5. Keep with peaceful, similarly sized fish and provide excellent filtration and regular water changes. Breeding adults can become territorial, and fine sand is important to prevent injury while feeding and digging.
Payment & Security
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