More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 750 litres / 198.13 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 18.5cm / 7.28inches |
| Temperature | 20°C / 68.00°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Hardness | 2.02dgH / 36ppm - 12.05dgH / 215ppm |
| pH | 5.5-7.5 |
Behaviour
The Demon Eartheater is generally peaceful, except during breeding when territorial behaviors may emerge. It tends to exist in loose aggregations, displaying strong grouping instincts, especially among juveniles. Maintaining a group of 5-8 individuals is recommended to establish a dominance hierarchy and prevent excessive antagonism. In smaller numbers, weaker specimens may become targets for dominant individuals.
Feeding and Diet
Demon Eartheaters are benthophagous, sifting through the substrate to find edible items and expelling the rest. Their diet consists of small aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates, plant material, organic detritus, and sediment. A varied diet of high-quality prepared foods, live or frozen bloodworms, Tubifex, Artemia, and mosquito larvae is essential. Feeding smaller portions multiple times a day mimics their natural browsing behavior and promotes optimal growth and condition.
Reproduction & Dimorphism
S. jurupari is an ovophilous maternal mouthbrooder, with females carrying and protecting fertilized eggs until they hatch into fry. Sexing is challenging, suggesting group spawning is ideal. Courtship rituals involve males initiating territories around solid objects, where they court gravid females. Adult females tend to be slightly smaller and deeper-bodied when carrying eggs. Once fry are released, they can be fed powdered dry foods, Artemia nauplii, and microworms.
Habitat and Distribution
Demon Eartheaters are found in the Amazon river basin, including Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia. They inhabit main river channels, smaller tributaries, and floodplain lakes with sandy or muddy substrates, leaf litter, and submerged tree branches. Distinct populations exist in various river systems, showing genetic differences. Notably, populations from certain rivers like Tapajós, Xingu, Araguaia, and Paraná appear to be unique.
Aquarium Setup
To mimic their natural habitat, provide Demon Eartheaters with a soft, sandy substrate necessary for their browsing behavior. Dim lighting, driftwood, and scattered roots create a suitable environment. Avoid leaf litter to prevent excess decomposed material in suspension. Water quality is crucial, requiring soft, acidic conditions and stable parameters. A combination of external canister filters, a sump system, and regular large water changes are necessary for their well-being.