'Geophagus' Crassilabris

Datasheet

General Description

Geophagus Crassilabris, commonly known as the Panamanian Eartheater, is a distinctive member of the Cichlidae family. It is part of the Geophagus steindachneri group and is recognized by its reddish coloration, especially in the fins, distinguishing it from closely-related species like G. steindachneri and G. pellegrini. The species is characterized by its benthophagous feeding behavior, earning it the nickname "eartheater," and requires a suitable substrate for natural browsing habits.

Aquarium Setup

Setting up an aquarium for Geophagus Crassilabris requires a soft, sandy substrate to facilitate natural browsing. Coarser materials like gravel can impede feeding and cause harm if ingested. Dim lighting, driftwood, roots, and branches are recommended decor elements. Leaf litter, while present in natural habitats, is discouraged in tanks due to water quality issues. Water quality must be closely monitored, with over-filtration and weekly water changes of 50-70% being crucial. Mechanical filtration should be optimized to trap sand particles and prevent system damage.

Behaviour

Adult male Panamanian Eartheaters tend to display aggression towards each other, especially during courtship and spawning. They may consume very small tankmates, despite not being classified as predatory. The species practices polygyny, with a single male ideally paired with a group of two or more females to maintain harmony.

Feeding and Diet

G. Crassilabris primarily feeds on small aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates, plant material, organic detritus, and sediment. Their diet in captivity should consist of high-quality prepared foods with a substantial vegetable component, supplemented with live or frozen options like bloodworms and Artemia. Offering multiple small meals daily allows them to exhibit natural browsing behavior and supports optimal growth and condition.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

This species engages in ovophilous, maternal mouthbrooding and forms weak pair bonds solely during spawning. Male Panamanian Eartheaters are larger than females, exhibit longer unpaired fin lobes, and typically develop a pronounced nuchal hump when sexually mature. Isolating holding females during breeding is often recommended to prevent harassment.

Habitat and Distribution

Found in the pristine streams and rivers of central and eastern Panama, G. Crassilabris thrives in habitats with moderate water flow and sandy or gravel substrates. Submerged woody structures such as driftwood and tree roots are common features in their natural environment. Its distribution spans the Pacific and Atlantic slopes of Panama, with various localities including ríos Baudó, Chagres, and Bayano.