Geophagus Albino Heckelii (Buy 1 Get 1) (2.5-3.5 Inches)

The Geophagus Albino Heckelii is a captivating cichlid, known for its striking albino coloration and graceful demeanor. Now available in a special "Buy 1 Get 1" offer, this deal provides a great opportunity to add two of these stunning fish to your aquarium at an excellent value.

Appearance: These juvenile Geophagus Albino Heckelii, measuring 2.5-3.5 inches, are already displaying the beautiful features that make them highly sought after. Their bodies are a delicate, creamy white, characteristic of albino varieties, with striking red or pink eyes that contrast beautifully against their pale bodies. As these fish continue to grow, they will develop the elongated, thread-like extensions on their dorsal and caudal fins, which are a signature feature of the species, adding an elegant, flowing appearance as they swim through the water.

Behavior and Temperament: Geophagus Albino Heckelii are known for their peaceful and social nature, making them ideal candidates for community aquariums. They are particularly fascinating to observe due to their natural sand-sifting behavior. This involves them foraging through the sandy substrate to find food, which not only provides a mesmerizing display but also helps to keep the substrate clean and aerated. While they are generally non-aggressive, they do establish a mild social hierarchy within their groups, though they are unlikely to cause any significant issues with other peaceful tankmates.

Habitat and Tank Setup: To ensure the well-being of these cichlids, it is important to replicate their natural habitat as closely as possible. They thrive in aquariums with soft, sandy substrates that allow them to perform their natural sifting behavior. It's best to avoid coarse gravel, as it can damage their sensitive mouths and gills. The tank should also feature a variety of hiding spots, such as rocks, driftwood, and caves, but with enough open space for swimming and foraging.

The ideal water parameters for Geophagus Albino Heckelii include a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 and a temperature between 24-28°C. Maintaining stable water conditions with regular water changes and a robust filtration system is crucial to their health and longevity.

Diet: As omnivores, Geophagus Albino Heckelii enjoy a diverse diet. They should be fed a combination of high-quality sinking pellets, flakes, and live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. Their natural sand-sifting behavior means they are well-suited to consuming food that settles on the tank floor. Additionally, supplementing their diet with blanched vegetables like spinach or zucchini can help promote optimal health and vibrant coloration.

Breeding: Breeding Geophagus Albino Heckelii can be a rewarding challenge for aquarists. These cichlids are substrate-spawners, meaning they will lay their eggs on a flat, clean surface, such as a rock or the tank bottom. The parents are attentive and protective, guarding the eggs and fry diligently. Once the fry become free-swimming, they can be fed finely crushed flake food or newly hatched brine shrimp to ensure healthy growth.