Geophagus Surinamensis, also known as the Redstriped Eartheater is one of the more peaceful species of cichlid to keep. It is called Eartheater for its habit of taking mouthfuls of sand and gravel to search for food. This species is beautiful, almost neon markings, peaceful nature, and low maintenance.
The Redstriped Eartheater is a cichlid species that is native mainly to the Amazon river basin and Suriname river system in Suriname, South America.
Family: CHICLIDAE
Scientific Name: Geophagus Surinamensis
Common Name: Surinam Geophagus
Distribution: Suriname – Sarramacca, Maroni and Suriname Rivers
Size: 10-12 inches/25-30cm
Temperature: 76 to 80 degrees
pH: 6-8
Size: Up to 12 inches (30cm)
Habitat: South America, Saramacca and Suriname Rivers in Suriname; Marowijne River in Suriname and French Guiana.
Min Tank Size: 55 gallon or larger recommended.
Diet: Omnivorous, live, frozen, and flake. Bottom Feeder, sinking food.
Behavior: Peaceful, relatively non-territorial cichlid. Will dig.
Water: Temperature: 76°F to 88°F (24-27°C),pH range: 6.0 – 8.0; dH range: 5 – 19
Care: Medium
Communities: They are more suitable for large community tanks as they will not bother smaller fish. However, this peacefulness makes them less suited to tanks containing other large, more aggressive fish.
Suitability: Species tank