Suriname eartheater - Geophagus proximus

Scientific name: Geophagus proximus

Common name: Suriname eartheater

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 22 - 30 cm (8.66 - 11.81 inch)

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Recommended pH range: 6 - 7.5

Recommended water hardness: 2 - 12°N (35.71 - 214.29ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature range: 24 - 28 °C (75.2 - 82.4°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: aggressive to smaller

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Overview

Geophagus proximus, commonly known as the Suriname eartheater, is a large South American cichlid native to the Amazon and coastal drainages of Guyana, Suriname, and northern Brazil. Like other eartheaters, it spends much of its time sifting sand through its gills in search of food. In aquaria, this species displays fascinating natural behavior, vivid coloration, and a generally peaceful temperament when provided with ample space and compatible tankmates.

Care & Tank Setup

• Tank size: A single adult requires at least 250 l / 65 gal. A small group (1 male + 3–4 females) needs 400–500 l / 105–130 gal. Long tanks with large footprints are preferred.
• Water parameters: pH 6.0–7.5, hardness 2–12 °dGH, temperature 24–28 °C (75–82 °F). Stable, clean water is essential.
• Substrate: Fine sand is mandatory to allow natural sifting behavior. Coarse gravel may damage the gills and should be avoided.
• Décor: Root wood, rounded stones, and caves for shelter. Plants are generally uprooted or destroyed; floating plants can provide shade without risk.
• Filtration: Strong filtration and regular water changes (30–40% weekly). They are sensitive to high nitrate levels.

Diet & Feeding

Omnivorous substrate feeder. In the aquarium, provide a balanced diet:

• Staple: High-quality sinking cichlid pellets and granules.
• Supplements: Frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, mysis, chopped earthworms.
• Vegetable matter: Spirulina flakes, blanched spinach, or zucchini to improve digestion and coloration.
• Avoid excessive protein-heavy foods that can cause digestive issues.

Behavior & Compatibility

• With conspecifics: Best kept in groups; a natural hierarchy forms, reducing stress on individual fish.
• Other fish: Generally peaceful toward similarly sized or larger tankmates. Avoid very small fish, which may be mistaken for food, and highly aggressive species that could intimidate them.
• Excellent companions include peaceful cichlids, large characins (e.g., silver dollars), and armored catfish (e.g., Corydoras, Plecos).

Sexing

Mature males are usually larger, more colorful, and may develop elongated fin extensions or a slight nuchal hump. Females remain smaller and rounder-bodied.

Breeding

G. proximus is a biparental mouthbrooder. Spawning typically occurs on a flat surface, after which one or both parents may take the eggs into their mouths for protection. In some cases, the male spawns with multiple females. Fry are released when free-swimming and continue to seek shelter in the parents’ mouths when threatened. Provide sandy substrate and secluded areas to encourage spawning behavior.

Lifespan

Average lifespan is 8–10 years under proper care, slightly longer than older reports suggested.

Origin

Native to South America: Amazon basin tributaries, rivers in Guyana, Suriname, and northern Brazil. Prefers slow to moderately flowing waters with sandy substrates.

Short description

The Suriname eartheater is a captivating cichlid ideal for large aquaria that mimic its natural sandy river habitats. Its constant substrate-sifting behavior, peaceful demeanor in groups, and striking coloration make it a favorite among advanced aquarists. However, its size, dietary needs, and digging habits require careful planning.

At-a-Glance (Care Box)

• Size (captive): 18–22 cm TL (7–9"); up to 25–30 cm maximum
• Temperament: Peaceful to semi-aggressive; best in groups
• pH: 6.0–7.5  |  GH: 2–12 °dGH
• Temp: 24–28 °C (75–82 °F)
• Tank: Single ≥ 250 l / 65 gal; group ≥ 400–500 l / 105–130 gal
• Diet: Omnivorous (sinking pellets, frozen/live foods, vegetable matter)
• Breeding: Mouthbrooder (biparental or female-dominant)
• Lifespan: 8–10 years

Pictures

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