Biotodoma cupido CUPID CICHLID

💚 Biotodoma cupido — Cupid Cichlid Care Guide

The Cupid Cichlid (Biotodoma cupido) is a beautiful, mild-mannered eartheater cichlid hailing from the slow-moving rivers and flooded forests of the Amazon Basin. Known for their subtle iridescence, extended dorsal filaments, and social behavior, they make a great addition to peaceful South American setups.

🐟 Species Overview

• Scientific Name: Biotodoma cupido

• Common Names: Cupid Cichlid, Green-Streaked Eartheater

• Origin: Amazon Basin — Brazil, Peru, Colombia

• Adult Size: 4.5–6 inches (11–15 cm)

• Lifespan: Up to 8 years

• Temperament: Peaceful, social, semi-shy

• Swimming Zone: Mid to bottom water column

🏡 Tank Setup

• Minimum Tank Size: 40 gallons for a small group; 75+ gallons recommended for adult groups

• Tank Type: South American biotope or planted aquarium with sandy substrate

• Substrate: Fine sand is essential to allow natural sifting behavior

• Decor: Use driftwood, smooth rocks, and leaf litter; provide shaded zones and hiding spaces

• Plants: Hardy rooted or floating plants; they generally won’t uproot or damage them

• Lighting: Low to moderate; soft lighting enhances coloration

• Filtration & Flow: Moderate filtration with gentle flow; avoid strong currents

💧 Water Parameters

• Temperature: 78–84°F (25.5–29°C)

• pH: 5.5–6.8 (acidic range ideal)

• Hardness: 1–10 dGH (soft water preferred)

• Water Changes: 25–40% weekly; pristine water quality is vital

• Tannins: Adding Indian almond leaves or driftwood is beneficial and replicates native blackwater habitats

🍽️ Diet & Feeding

Biotodoma cupido are omnivorous, with a strong preference for protein-rich foods in captivity.

• Staple Diet: High-quality cichlid pellets or granules

• Live/Frozen Foods: Bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, blackworms

• Occasional Vegetables: Blanched spinach, peas, or spirulina-based flakes

• Feeding Schedule: 1–2 times daily; feed what they can consume in 2–3 minutes

💡 They sift substrate through their gills looking for food, so avoid sharp substrates that can injure their mouths.

🤝 Compatibility & Tankmates

• Behavior: Non-aggressive; best kept in small groups (5–6 is ideal)

• Best Tankmates: Peaceful tetras, hatchetfish, pencilfish, Corydoras, Apistogramma, dwarf cichlids, and peaceful plecos

• Avoid: Aggressive or very boisterous fish (e.g., large Central American cichlids or fin-nippers)

🐣 Breeding Tips

Breeding Biotodoma cupido can be done in home aquariums with proper water conditions and a bonded pair.

• Breeding Type: Substrate spawner

• Courtship Behavior: Color intensifies; male displays extended fin rays

• Spawning Site: Flat stones or sandy patches

• Parental Care: Both parents guard eggs and fan them until hatching

• Fry Care: Feed baby brine shrimp once yolk sacs are absorbed; maintain clean water with a sponge filter to protect fry

📝 Quick Care Summary

🧠 Pro Tips

• Maintain soft, acidic water to promote vibrant coloration and natural behavior.

• Sand substrate is essential — avoid gravel.

• Group them in odd numbers to reduce stress and aggression.

• Provide leaf litter or botanicals for tannin-rich, Amazon-like conditions.