Geophagus Tapajos

Geophagus Tapajos (Geophagus sp. "Tapajos")

A striking earth-eater cichlid with a warm red and gold colouration, the Geophagus Redhorse is known for its habit of sifting sand through its gills in search of food. Peaceful for a cichlid, it's best kept in groups in a large tank with a deep sand bed.

Care at a Glance:

• Minimum Tank Size: 300L with deep fine sand and open space
• Temperature: 26–30°C
• pH Range: 6.0–7.0
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful, can be territorial when breeding
• Diet: Sinking pellets, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, blackworms
• Max Size: 20–25cm
• Lifespan: 8–10 years
• Care Level: Moderate (needs sand substrate and pristine water)

Tank Mates: Peaceful South American cichlids, large tetras, severums, and catfish; avoid aggressive species and very small fish.

Origin: South America — river basins (captive-bred aquarium strain)