Geophagus Proximus

Datasheet

General Description

Geophagus Proximus, also known as Chromys proxima Castelnau, is a species of cichlid belonging to the family Cichlidae. This rare species is a member of the putative G. surinamensis 'group' of closely-related species within the genus Geophagus. Generally, G. proximus can reach a maximum size of 22.5cm.

Aquarium Setup

The ideal tank setup for G. proximus includes a soft, sandy substrate to mimic its natural browsing behavior. Additional decor such as driftwood, roots, branches, and rocks can be added for aesthetic value and potential spawning sites. Leaf litter is not recommended due to the cichlids' feeding behavior causing water quality issues. It is crucial to maintain stable water conditions with a pH range of 4.0-7.0, temperature between 24-32°C, and hardness of 18-179ppm. Over-filtering the tank, performing regular water changes of 50-70%, and avoiding high flow rates are essential for their well-being.

Behaviour

G. proximus is known to be peaceful unless breeding and typically does not prey on fish larger than a few millimeters. They are gregarious and tend to exist in loose aggregations, showing noticeable dominance hierarchies within groups of 5-8 individuals. It is advised to avoid aggressive or territorial species as tankmates to prevent excessive antagonism towards weaker specimens. Some aquarists have successfully kept G. proximus alongside freshwater stingrays, demonstrating compatibility in certain cases.

Feeding and Diet

Commonly known as 'eartheaters,' G. proximus primarily feed on small aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates, plant material, organic detritus, and sediment in the wild. In captivity, their diet should include a variety of high-quality prepared foods with a high vegetable matter content, supplemented with small live or frozen foods like bloodworms, Tubifex, Artemia, and mosquito larvae. Providing multiple small daily portions allows them to exhibit natural browsing behavior and supports optimal growth rates.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

G. proximus is a substrate-spawning, ovophilous, biparental mouthbrooder. Courtship involves fin flaring, circling, and head jerking displays, leading to the selection of a spawning site where the female lays eggs fertilized by the male. The female typically holds up to 200 eggs, with both parents involved in brood care. Mature males are slightly larger with longer finnage and may develop a nuchal hump. Accurate sexing of younger individuals is challenging, but females have a visible ovipositor during spawning.

Habitat and Distribution

In its natural habitat, G. proximus is predominantly found in the lower reaches of rivers, floodplain lakes in várzea regions, and some permanent black water lakes, such as Lago Amanã in Brazil. They prefer clear and black water environments with sandy, gravel, and muddy substrates, often inhabiting areas with scattered rocks, submerged tree roots, and branches.

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