Redhump eartheater - Geophagus steindachneri

Scientific name: Geophagus steindachneri

Common name: Redhump eartheater

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 18 - 20 cm (7.09 - 7.87 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.5 - 7

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 5 - 17°N (89.29 - 303.57ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 23 - 27 °C (73.4 - 80.6°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South America

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Food and Feeding

Redhump Eartheaters (Geophagus steindachneri) are omnivorous and will readily accept a variety of foods in the aquarium. For a balanced diet, provide a staple of high-quality sinking pellets or cichlid flakes. To enhance their health and coloration, supplement with:

• Vegetables: Blanched spinach, shelled peas, zucchini slices.
• Protein sources: Bloodworms, brine shrimp, and chopped earthworms.
• Occasional treats: Small crustaceans, daphnia, and mysis shrimp.

Since they are substrate sifters, offering a mix of sinking foods ensures they get their fair share of nutrition.

Origin

Redhump Eartheaters are native to South America, specifically found in the Rio Magdalena drainage in Colombia. They inhabit slow-moving rivers and lakes with sandy or muddy substrates, where they sift through the bottom in search of food.

Sexing

Males are more colorful than females, displaying intense red markings around the mouth and gill area. As they mature, males develop a noticeable nuchal hump on their forehead, which is absent in females. Females are generally smaller and have a more streamlined body shape.

Breeding

Geophagus steindachneri are maternal mouthbrooders, meaning the female carries and protects the fertilized eggs in her mouth. The breeding process includes:

• The male digs a shallow pit in the substrate to attract a female.
• Once spawning occurs, the female immediately scoops up the eggs into her mouth for incubation.
• The male does not take part in parental care and may attempt to breed with multiple females.
• After 10-14 days, the fry hatch and are released when they are strong enough to swim.

Newly hatched fry should be fed Infusoria, followed by newly hatched brine shrimp or finely crushed flake food.

Lifespan

With proper care, Geophagus steindachneri can live up to 10-12 years in captivity.

Tank Setup and Behavior

Redhump Eartheaters are relatively easy to care for but require a spacious tank due to their active digging behavior. Key setup considerations include:

• Minimum tank size: 50 gallons (189 liters) for a single male with females.
• Substrate: Use fine sand to accommodate their natural sifting behavior.
• Tank decorations: Include driftwood, caves, and smooth rocks, but avoid delicate live plants as they will be uprooted.
• Water conditions: Maintain soft to moderately hard water with a stable temperature of 23-27°C (73.4-80.6°F).

They are peaceful towards tank mates but can become territorial, especially males during breeding. Keep only one male per tank to prevent aggression.

Suitable Tank Mates

Redhump Eartheaters coexist well with other peaceful, similarly sized fish. Suitable companions include:

• Severum Cichlids – Calm, mid-sized South American cichlids.
• Festivum Cichlids – Gentle and non-aggressive tank mates.
• Geophagus Surinamensis – Similar substrate-sifting cichlids.
• Silver Dollars – Active schooling fish that share similar water parameters.
• Bala Sharks – Peaceful and large enough to avoid aggression.

Tank mates to avoid: Avoid aggressive or highly territorial fish, such as:

• Jack Dempsey Cichlids – Can harass peaceful species.
• Oscars – Too large and territorial.
• Convict Cichlids – Will outcompete them for food and space.

Recommended Plants

Since Redhump Eartheaters are known for their digging habits, use floating plants or hardy species that can be anchored to decorations. Suitable options include:

• Anubias Barteri – Can be attached to driftwood.
• Java Fern – Hardy and does not require planting in the substrate.
• Cryptocoryne Wendtii – Can tolerate being uprooted occasionally.
• Hornwort – Floating plant that provides shade.

Short Description

The Redhump Eartheater (Geophagus steindachneri) is a substrate-sifting cichlid from South America known for its peaceful temperament and unique digging behavior. With their striking red markings and prominent nuchal hump, they make a fascinating addition to well-maintained aquariums. Providing them with sandy substrates, hiding places, and a balanced diet will ensure they thrive in captivity.

Pictures

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.