Geophagus Albino Heckelii (Buy 1 Get 1) (3.5-4.5 Inches)

The Geophagus Albino Heckelii is a captivating freshwater cichlid, cherished for its striking albino coloration and graceful presence. Now available in a "Buy 1 Get 1" offer, this deal is perfect for aquarists looking to add not just one, but two of these beautiful fish to their aquarium.

Appearance: At 3.5-4.5 inches in size, these juvenile Geophagus Albino Heckelii are already beginning to show the stunning features that make them so popular. Their bodies are a soft, creamy white or pale pink, typical of albino varieties, and their eyes are a vivid red or pink, providing a striking contrast. As they mature, these cichlids develop long, flowing thread-like extensions on their dorsal and caudal fins, giving them an elegant, almost ethereal appearance in the water. The albino coloration enhances the visual appeal, making these fish true standouts in any tank.

Behavior and Temperament: Known for their peaceful demeanor, the Geophagus Albino Heckelii are ideal for community tanks, where they can coexist with other similarly sized and non-aggressive species. These fish are particularly fascinating due to their sand-sifting behavior, a natural activity where they forage through the substrate in search of food. This not only provides endless entertainment but also helps maintain a clean and aerated substrate. While they are generally peaceful, they do establish a social hierarchy within groups, though aggression is minimal.

Habitat and Tank Setup: To ensure these cichlids thrive, it's important to replicate their natural habitat. They prefer aquariums with soft, sandy substrates that allow them to sift through the sand comfortably. Avoiding coarse gravel is essential, as it can damage their delicate gills and mouths. The tank should also include plenty of hiding spots, such as rocks, driftwood, and caves, but still leave open spaces for swimming and foraging.

The ideal water conditions for the Geophagus Albino Heckelii include a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 and a temperature between 24-28°C. Regular water changes and a good filtration system are key to maintaining the clean, stable environment these fish need.

Diet: These omnivorous cichlids enjoy a varied diet. They thrive on high-quality sinking pellets, flakes, and a mix of frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. Their natural behavior includes scavenging the tank bottom for food, so sinking foods are ideal. You can also supplement their diet with blanched vegetables like spinach or zucchini to promote optimal health.

Breeding: For those interested in breeding, the Geophagus Albino Heckelii can be a rewarding but challenging species to breed in captivity. They are substrate-spawners, and once a pair forms, they will select a flat surface to lay their eggs. The parents are attentive and will guard the eggs and fry, which should be fed finely crushed flake food or newly hatched brine shrimp once free-swimming.