Family: Cichlidae
Geophagus brasiliensis — a Cichlidae from South America. Reaches 22.5–33 cm; keep at 22–28 °C.
Geophagus brasiliensis is a Cichlidae from South America. In the wild it prefers lakes and slow rivers with structure; in the aquarium it stays varies by species. Plan on 22.5–33 cm of adult fish at 22–28 °C. In a community tank it pairs well with Similar-sized peaceful community fish.
Intermediate difficulty. Varies by species; many are territorial when breeding; pairs or singles with defined territory.
Hold 22–28 °C and keep it stable — 22–28 °C curated husbandry range. Heater required for stable tropical warmth.
Full size is 22.5–33 cm. Minimum tank: 500 L, with open swimming space along its bottom-dwelling habits.
Omnivore to carnivore; quality prepared foods. It forages naturally over sand with rock piles, so let some food reach the bottom.
Varies by species; many are territorial when breeding. Recommended tankmates: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs. Avoid Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.
Comes from South America: lakes and slow rivers with structure. Expect still to gentle current and moderate.
Low escape risk, but a lid is cheap insurance.
In the aquarium: substrate or cave spawner with parental care. Often striking; males larger and brighter.