Geophagus Surinamenses SMALL

🐟 Geophagus surinamensis — Original Care Guide

The Geophagus surinamensis, often called the "True Eartheater," is a beautifully refined South American cichlid known for its shimmering body tones, gentle nature, and signature feeding behavior. Originating from the river systems of northern South America, this species sifts through fine sand in search of food, creating a captivating natural display when kept in the proper environment.

🌍 Natural Distribution

• Native Range: Guyana, Suriname, and northern Brazil

• Habitat Type: Slow-moving rivers and flooded forest zones with sandy bottoms, submerged roots, and organic debris

• Water Conditions in the Wild: Soft, warm, and slightly acidic with minimal current and high tannin content from leaf litter

🏠 Aquarium Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 90 gallons (for a group of 4–6); larger tanks strongly preferred for adult size and social dynamics

• Substrate: Fine sand is mandatory — gravel or sharp substrates will damage their gill plates during sifting

• Decor:

  • Driftwood, branches, and leaf litter help mimic their natural environment

  • Smooth stones and dim lighting create a secure and natural setting

• Plants: Choose floating species or anchored epiphytes (e.g., Anubias, Java fern) to avoid uprooting

• Filtration: Use a strong, high-capacity filter, as their digging can stir up detritus

• Water Movement: Mild to moderate flow; additional aeration is beneficial

🌡️ Water Conditions

• Temperature: 78–84°F (25.5–29°C)

• pH: 5.5–6.8 — slightly acidic is ideal

• Hardness: Soft water (1–6 dGH)

• Water Change Schedule: Weekly changes of 25–40% to maintain excellent water quality

• Note: This species is sensitive to sudden fluctuations and nitrogen buildup

🍴 Feeding & Diet

Geophagus surinamensis are natural sand-sifters that extract edible material from mouthfuls of substrate. Their diet should reflect this for optimal health.

• Core Diet:

  • Sinking, soft cichlid pellets or granules

  • High-quality omnivore wafers

• Live/Frozen Foods:

  • Bloodworms, daphnia, blackworms, brine shrimp

• Vegetable Matter:

  • Blanched spinach, zucchini, or shelled peas (offered occasionally)

• Feeding Behavior:

  • Feed 1–2 times per day

  • Scatter food to encourage natural foraging behavior across the tank floor

🤝 Temperament & Tankmates

• Disposition: Calm, non-aggressive, and highly social

• Best Kept: In groups of 4–8 to reduce dominance and encourage natural behavior

• Compatible Species:

  • Peaceful South American cichlids (e.g., Heros, Uaru)

  • Larger characins (e.g., Congo tetras, silver dollars)

  • Bottom dwellers like Corydoras and small Loricariids

• Avoid:

  • Aggressive cichlids (e.g., Green Terrors, Jack Dempseys)

  • Fin-nippers and hyperactive fish that may stress this calm species

🧬 Breeding Behavior

• Reproductive Method: Delayed mouthbrooder

• Spawning Process:

  • Pairs form naturally from groups

  • Eggs are laid on flat surfaces or shallow pits

  • Shortly after hatching, fry are taken into the mouth of one or both parents for protection

• Fry Care:

  • Parents will release fry periodically for foraging, then collect them again

  • Offer infusoria or powdered fry food, then baby brine shrimp as they grow

⚠️ Special Considerations

• Substrate Quality: Never house on gravel — it interferes with feeding and risks gill injury

• Group Dynamics: Keeping just one or two can cause aggression or stress; always aim for a social group

• Water Quality Sensitivity: High nitrates and poor oxygenation lead to stress and illness; prioritize filtration and aeration

📋 Quick Summary Table

Geophagus surinamensis is a true showcase of natural elegance and behavior. With the right sand, soft water, and a tranquil tank environment, these eartheaters thrive — constantly filtering the substrate and shimmering under gentle lighting. They're a joy to observe and a gem in any serious South American aquarium.