Heckel's Eartheater
Image: <div class="fn value"> <a href="https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q53499085" class="extiw" title="wikidata:Q53499085">Burkhardt, Jacques</a></div> (Public domain)
NameHeckel's Eartheater
Scientific NameAcarichthys heckelii
Common NamesHeckel's Eartheater, Threadfin Acara
FamilyCichlidae
OriginSouth America, Amazon Basin
Temperamentcommunity
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)75
Max Size (Inches)8
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)75-82
pH Range6.0-7.5
Compatible SpeciesGeophagus species, Severum Cichlids, Large Tetras, Corydoras Catfish, Plecos, Silver Dollars
Description
The Heckel's Eartheater is a beautiful South American cichlid known for its peaceful demeanor and unique sand-sifting behavior. It features a distinctive black spot on its flank and can develop elongated fin rays, especially in males. This species thrives in well-maintained, spacious aquariums with soft, acidic water and a sandy substrate.
