Geophagus
Geophagus sp. · Cichlidae
Also known as Red hump eartheater, Geo
Intermediate
A sand-sifting mouthbrooding cichlid that is peaceful for its size — best in a group.
In short: A geophagus needs at least 380 L (100 US gal), water at 26–30 °C (79–86 °F) and pH 5.5–7.2. It is peaceful, best kept in groups of 5 or more, and rated intermediate to keep.
Updated
- Minimum tank
- 380 L (100 US gal)
- Temperature
- 26–30 °C (79–86 °F)
- pH
- 5.5–7.2
- Adult size
- 20 cm (7.9 in)
- Group size
- 5+
Care requirements
- Minimum tank volume
- 380 L (100 US gal)
- Temperature
- 26–30 °C (79–86 °F)
- pH
- 5.5–7.2
- Hardness
- 1–12 dGH
- Lifespan
- 8–12 years
- Diet
- Omnivore — sinking pellets, frozen foods, sifted from sand.
- Care level
- Intermediate
Origin & habitat
- Native region
- Amazon and Orinoco basins
- Water type
- Freshwater
- Biotope
- Sandy river beds
- Natural conditions
- Deep fine sand for sifting, warm soft water, strong filtration.
Behaviour & stocking
- Temperament
- Peaceful
- Minimum group
- 5 fish
- Swims
- Bottom
- Good tank mates
- SeverumSilver dollarLarge plecos
- Avoid
- Gravel substrateSmall fishAggressive cichlids
Breeding & difficulty
- Breeding difficulty
- Intermediate
- Sexing
- Males grow larger, sometimes with a nuchal hump.
- Notes
- Delayed mouthbrooder; parents carry the fry.
- Common ailments
- BloatIchBarbel and mouth damage on gravel
Will it fit your tank?
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