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)

014

Recommended pH range for the species: 6.5 - 7.5

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 6 - 20°N (107.14 - 357.14ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 22 - 25 °C (71.6 - 77°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

Food and feeding

These fish are substrate feeders, use sinking cichlid pellets as the staple diet. They will also relish treats of blood worms as well.

Origin

South America; they are found in the waterways of Brazil and Peru.

Sexing

Males will be larger when mature than females. The males may also develop a nuchal hump on the forehead.

Breeding

The Suriname Eartheaters will breed with several females at the same time. Keep one male with several females, when spawning is complete the male will defend all of the spawning sites while the female mouth broods the eggs. If the male is kept with a single female, she may become aggressive when protecting her young.

Lifespan

The expected life span for this fish is 6-8 years.

Short description

As these fish are always sifting the substrate for food, it is best to use sand in the tank. Provide hiding places with rockwork or wood but any plants added will be destroyed.

Pictures

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