Description

Geophagus altifrons (Eartheater) Overview

• Common Name: Eartheater
• Scientific Name: Geophagus altifrons
• Family: Cichlidae
• Native Habitat: Found throughout the middle and lower Amazon Basin, inhabiting various tributaries.
• Size: Grows up to 8-10 inches (20-25 cm). Males generally have longer fins, especially their ventral fins.
• Lifespan: Typically lives for 10-15 years with proper care.
• Diet: Omnivore. They eat a variety of small invertebrates, detritus, and plant matter.
• Behavior: While generally peaceful, they can become territorial during spawning.

Tank Requirements

• Tank Size:
  • Minimum of 90 gallons for a breeding pair.
  • A tank size of 125 gallons or larger is recommended if housing them with other fish, due to their large size and territorial nature.
• Water Conditions:
  • pH: 6.0 – 7.5
  • Hardness: Soft to medium (4-12 dGH)
  • Temperature: 75°F – 82°F (24°C – 28°C)
  • Substrate: Sandy substrate is a must, as they are “earth-eating” fish. Gravel may pose a choking hazard and should be avoided.
• Filtration: Strong filtration is essential due to their large size and messy eating habits. Regular water changes are needed to maintain clean water.

Tankmate Compatibility

Geophagus altifrons are generally peaceful but can show aggression when breeding or threatened. It is essential to choose tankmates that are large enough to avoid being eaten but also calm to prevent unnecessary stress.

• Compatible Tankmates:
  • Larger, peaceful cichlids such as Acarichthys heckelii, Cichlasoma species, and other Geophagus varieties.
  • South American fish like Discus, Angelfish, and large Tetras, although caution should be taken with the latter.
  • Larger catfish like Corydoras and Plecos, which are peaceful and won’t interfere with the eartheaters’ space.
• Incompatible Tankmates:
  • Small fish that could fit in their mouths.
  • Aggressive species like Oscars, Jack Dempseys, or territorial cichlids.
  • Very active or small schooling fish such as Danios or Neons, which might cause stress for the eartheaters.