Threadfin Acara

Remarks:  Threadfin acaras are large, elegant South American cichlids that are a favorite amongst cichlid enthusiasts. They are large enough to hold their own against most other larger South American cichlids and are not terribly aggressive unless spawning. Most end up becoming very personable too, begging for food anytime people come near their tank. Threadfin acaras show some incredible colors when mature with reds and blues across their silver iridescent bodies and fins that is made only better by the elegant thread-like streamers on the fins of males. Between their beautiful looks and entertaining personalities, it isn't hard to see why these fish have become so popular.   In the wild, threadfin acaras can be found in habitats similar to those of most Geophagus; calm, clean, warm, soft, acidic water with a sandy substrate covered in fallen branches. Also similar to Geophagus, they will dig around in the sand in search of food though not to as much of an extreme extent. Being omnivores, they will feed on any meat or vegetation they can find. Despite being similar in behavior, native range, diet, and shape, threadfin acaras are not Geophagus. Instead they are acaras and behave like such in that they will form pairs rather than stay in groups once mature. Interestingly, it is the female fish that prepare spawning burrows and work to attract males rather than the typical set up of the males doing the courtship work. Pairs will become far more territorial and aggressive upon spawning as both work to defend their eggs and fry. This behavior is why while a 90 gallon is enough for a pair of threadfin acaras, a much larger tank of 125 gallons or more is needed if wanting to house them in a community set up.    Providing conditions similar to that of their wild habitat as well as a spawning cave like a flower pot is the best way to encourage spawning among captive threadfin acaras. If breeding is not the goal, things such as pH and hardness do not need to be paid as much close attention to as they are fairly adaptable and tend to be tolerable when it comes to water parameters. This is due to the fact that almost all available in the hobby these days come from lines that have been in captivity for many generations. While they can hold their own against cichlids of similar size fairly well, threadfin acaras should not be kept with fish that are notably nippy as there is the risk of their beautiful threadfins being nipped off. Not only does this ruin the namesake of the fish, but it leaves open wounds that can become infected. Otherwise, they can be kept with many other South American species so long as those tank mates are not small enough to be swallowed.