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Surinam Eartheater
Geophagus surinamensis
Animalia›Chordata›Actinopterygii›Cichlidae
📍 Surinam & Guyana, South America
Large cichlid that sifts sand through its gills for food particles. Peaceful despite its size. Needs a deep sand bed and pristine water quality.
Care Guide
Diet
Surinam Eartheaters are omnivorous bottom feeders that primarily consume small invertebrates, crustaceans, and organic matter sifted from the substrate. Feed high-quality sinking pellets, frozen bloodworms, and brine shrimp once daily in small portions. Supplement with vegetable matter like blanched spinach or algae wafers 1-2 times weekly.
Behavior
These peaceful cichlids spend most of their time sifting through the sand bed searching for food, a natural behavior that aerates the substrate. They are generally non-aggressive toward other fish despite their size, though they may consume very small fish or fry. They are most active during dawn and dusk, remaining relatively calm during daylight hours.
Breeding
Breeding in captivity is difficult and rarely achieved in home aquariums. They require pristine water conditions, a deep sand substrate for spawning, and pairs may be aggressive toward each other during breeding attempts. Fry are extremely difficult to raise due to their specific dietary and water quality requirements.
Tank Mates
Similar bottom-dwelling habits and peaceful temperament; both benefit from sand substrate
Peaceful schooling fish that occupy mid-water column and don't compete for bottom space
Nocturnal algae eater that shares bottom habitat without direct competition
Small, peaceful schooling fish that remain in mid-water and won't trigger predatory behavior
Generally safe but may be eaten if eartheater is particularly aggressive; monitor closely
Common Diseases
Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis)
White spots on body and fins, rapid breathing, flashing against substrate
Raise temperature to 28-30°C, perform daily 25% water changes, use ich medication if severe; maintain excellent water quality
Fin Rot
Frayed or deteriorating fins, discoloration at fin edges, lethargy
Perform frequent water changes, improve water quality, use antibacterial medication if bacterial infection suspected
Hole-in-the-Head Disease
Small holes or pits developing on head and lateral line, loss of appetite
Improve water quality, increase water change frequency, use vitamin-enriched foods and quality filtration; may indicate poor water conditions
Parasitic Infections
Excessive scratching, visible parasites, weight loss despite feeding
Use antiparasitic medication, maintain pristine water conditions, quarantine affected fish if possible
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