Quick Stats
| Adult Size | 15–25 cm |
| Minimum Tank | 55 gal |
| Temperature | 26–30°C |
| pH Range | 6.0–7.0 |
| Hardness (GH) | 4–10 dGH |
| Difficulty | Medium |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Diet | Omnivore — sinking pellets, frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp |
| Schooling | Groups of 4+ |
Tank Setup
The Geophagus (Earth Eater) (Geophagus sp.) requires a minimum tank size of 55 gal. For a species this size, a larger tank is always better — more water volume means more stable parameters and a healthier environment.
Water parameters should be maintained within the following ranges: temperature 26–30°C, pH 6.0–7.0, and hardness 4–10 dGH. These fish are sensitive to water quality — test regularly and maintain pristine conditions.
Provide appropriate hiding places, a suitable substrate, and open swimming space to match the natural behaviour of this species.
Tank Mates
Geophagus (Earth Eater) are peaceful fish. They work well in community tanks with similarly-sized peaceful species.
Compatible tank mates include: Severum, Corydoras, Bristlenose Pleco, Larger Tetras, Rainbowfish. Avoid housing with aggressive or much larger fish.
Schooling requirements: Groups of 4+. Keeping them in adequate numbers is essential for their wellbeing.
Diet & Feeding
Geophagus (Earth Eater) are Omnivore. Feed a varied diet to ensure optimal health and colouration.
Omnivore — sinking pellets, frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp
Feed small amounts 1–2 times daily. Only provide what the fish can consume within 2–3 minutes to prevent overfeeding and water quality issues. Supplement with live or frozen foods for optimal health and colour.
Common Health Issues
Like all aquarium fish, Geophagus (Earth Eater) can be susceptible to common diseases including ich (white spot disease), fin rot, and bacterial infections. This species can be sensitive — maintain excellent water quality to prevent health issues.
Prevention is always better than treatment. Maintain stable water parameters, avoid overfeeding, quarantine new fish before adding them to the main tank, and perform regular water changes. Test your water weekly and address any parameter spikes immediately.
If disease does occur, isolate affected fish in a quarantine tank and treat appropriately. Always research medication compatibility before use — some treatments are toxic to invertebrates and scaleless fish.
Breeding
Breeding Geophagus (Earth Eater) requires specific conditions and may be challenging for beginners.
Provide appropriate breeding conditions — caves or hiding places for egg-laying species. Condition breeding pairs with high-quality foods before attempting to spawn them.
Research specific breeding requirements for this species before attempting it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tank does a Geophagus (Earth Eater) need?
A Geophagus (Earth Eater) needs a minimum tank size of 55 gal. However, larger is always better — more water volume means more stable water parameters and healthier fish.
Are Geophagus (Earth Eater) easy to keep?
Geophagus (Earth Eater) are rated as Medium difficulty. Some experience with aquarium water parameters is recommended before keeping this species.
What do Geophagus (Earth Eater) eat?
Geophagus (Earth Eater) are Omnivore. Feed a varied diet including sinking pellets, frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp.
Can Geophagus (Earth Eater) live with other fish?
Geophagus (Earth Eater) are peaceful. Compatible tankmates include: Severum, Corydoras, Bristlenose Pleco, Larger Tetras, Rainbowfish. They work well in community tanks with similarly-sized peaceful fish.