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Freshwater fishGeophagus Braziliansis
Geophagus Braziliansis
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The Geophagus Braziliansis cichlid is also called Pearl Cichlid. First discovered in northern Brazil, these fish are hardy and most commonly sold by pond breeders in Florida. Eartheaters are a group of species, most belonging to the genus Geophagus, that share physical characteristics (when you see an eartheater, you know it’s an eartheater) and behavioral characteristics: they eat earth and spit it out. They live a long time, and most are peaceful and elegant.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Geophagus brasiliensis |
| Origin | Coastal eastern and southern Brazil and Uruguay |
| Care Level | Easy |
| Temperament | Peaceful (territorial when breeding) |
| Adult Size | Up to 6–8" |
| Lifespan | 8–10 years |
| Diet | Omnivore (sifts sand for food) |
| Water Temperature | 68–82°F |
| pH | 6.5–8.0 |
| Group Size | Does best in a group |
| Shipping Size | Approx. 2–5" |
Care Guide
Tank setup: Eartheaters sift sand through their gills, so use a fine sand bottom (no sharp gravel). Give them open sand areas, driftwood and some rocks. Good filtration and clean water are important.
Feeding: Feed a quality sinking pellet or granule once or twice a day. Sinking foods let them feed naturally by sifting the sand. They also enjoy frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp.
Tankmates: Eartheaters do well with other peaceful South American fish of similar size, such as angelfish, severums, festivums, larger tetras, hatchetfish and plecos. Avoid aggressive cichlids that would bully them.
Good to know: Many eartheaters are mouthbrooders. Watch for parents taking eggs or fry into their mouths for protection.
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