Redstriped eartheater

The redstriped eartheater is a striking South American cichlid from Suriname, French Guiana, and Brazil, named for its characteristic behaviour of taking mouthfuls of sand and sifting them for edible items. It displays an attractive pattern of horizontal red-orange stripes along a silver-blue body, with extended fin rays in dominant males. Adults reach approximately 17 cm in standard length (25-30 cm total length), making them one of the larger Geophagus species.

Despite their size, eartheaters are generally peaceful cichlids suitable for community tanks with other non-aggressive, similarly-sized fish. They are best maintained in groups of 4-6 individuals, which promotes natural social behaviour and reduces any territorial aggression. A soft sand substrate is absolutely mandatory — sharp gravel will injure their mouths and gills during feeding. A tank of at least 300 litres with strong filtration, driftwood hiding places, and hardy potted plants (they will uproot delicate species) provides an ideal home. They are mouthbrooders: the female carries eggs and fry in her mouth for several weeks.

Water conditions: 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, with soft to moderately hard water. Diet consists of quality sinking pellets, supplemented with frozen bloodworm, Artemia, and vegetable matter. They are not efficient surface feeders, so food should be allowed to sink. Regular weekly water changes of 20-30% are important to maintain good health. With proper care, the redstriped eartheater can live for 10-12 years and provides endless entertainment through its substrate-sifting behaviour and complex social interactions.