name: threadfin acara (acarichthys heckelii) max size: up to 8 inches water parameters: pH 6.0-7.5, temperature 75-82°F, soft to moderately hard water diet: omnivorous – eats high quality pellets, flakes, and live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and small crustaceans; also benefits from occasional vegetable matter temperament: generally peaceful but can be mildly territorial, especially during breeding tank setup: spacious aquarium with a sandy substrate for natural sifting behavior; include driftwood, rocks, and caves for cover; strong filtration and regular water changes are important compatibility: suitable with other peaceful to moderately aggressive fish such as larger tetras, cichlids, and catfish; avoid very small fish that may be eaten behavior: bottom-oriented and constantly sifts sand through its mouth while searching for food; males develop long, thread-like fin extensions fun fact: the threadfin acara gets its name from the long trailing filaments on the dorsal fin of mature males, which give it a very elegant and distinctive look