Red Hump Eartheater

Red Hump Eartheaters are omnivorous bottom feeders that sift substrate for small organisms, insects, and plant matter. 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 to support their natural foraging behavior.

These peaceful cichlids are primarily bottom-dwellers that spend much of their time sifting through sand searching for food, which helps aerate the substrate. Males develop a prominent nuchal hump and display reddish coloration, especially when establishing territory or during breeding. They are social within their species and should be kept in groups of at least 4 to reduce aggression and stress.

Breeding in captivity is moderately difficult and requires stable water conditions, mature males with well-developed humps, and plenty of hiding spaces. They are mouthbrooders; females incubate eggs in their mouths for 2-3 weeks before releasing fry. Provide fine sand substrate and minimal disturbance during breeding to increase success rates.