'Geophagus' Steindachneri

Datasheet

General Description

The Geophagus Steindachneri, commonly known as the Red Hump Eartheater, is a member of the Cichlidae family within the Perciformes order. It is a benthophagous species, primarily feeding on small aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates, plant material, organic detritus, and sediment. This cichlid species showcases a variety of color forms that differ with locality, and some may be recognized as distinct taxa in the future.

Aquarium Setup

To mimic its natural habitat, an aquarium for the Geophagus Steindachneri should feature a soft, sandy substrate that allows the fish to browse naturally. It is crucial to avoid coarse materials like gravel or small pebbles that can hinder feeding and cause potential harm if ingested. Tank decorations typically include dim lighting, driftwood, roots or branches, and flat rocks for potential spawning sites. Leaf litter, common in their natural environment, is discouraged in aquariums due to the species' feeding behavior that can lead to water quality issues.

Behaviour

Adult male Red Hump Eartheaters exhibit aggressive territorial behavior towards other males, particularly during the breeding season. It is recommended to house only one male in the aquarium unless it is sufficiently large. Providing the male with three or more females helps disperse aggression during breeding conditions. Compatible tankmates include pelagic characins, while aggressive or territorial benthic species should be avoided.

Feeding and Diet

The Geophagus Steindachneri employs a feeding strategy involving substrate sifting for food. Their diet consists of a variety of high-quality, fine-grade prepared foods along with small live or frozen options like bloodworms, Tubifex, Artemia, and mosquito larvae. Home-made gelatine-bound recipes containing a mix of dried fish food, shellfish, fruits, and vegetables are also suitable. Feeding should include multiple small portions daily to mimic natural browsing behavior.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

For reproduction, this species is ovophilous and displays maternal mouthbrooding behavior. Males are polygamous and may breed with several females. Courtship typically lasts for hours, with females laying eggs collected in their mouths. After fertilization by the male, the female incubates the eggs for 10-14 days. Sexually mature males develop a pronounced nuchal hump and are larger in size compared to females.

Habitat and Distribution

Geophagus Steindachneri is commonly found in forested streams, tributaries, and backwaters with sandy substrates. It is widespread throughout the Río Magdalena drainage in Colombia, including the Río Cauca and Río Sinú basins, as well as the Río Limón basin in northwestern Venezuela, draining into Lake Maracaibo near the Caribbean Sea. The species thrives in water conditions with a pH range of 6.0-7.5, hardness of 36-215ppm, and temperatures between 20-30°C.