Satanoperca Pappaterra

Datasheet

Behaviour:

Satanoperca pappaterra is generally peaceful and unlikely to prey on fish larger than a few millimeters in length, making them suitable tankmates for most peaceful species sharing similar environmental conditions. It is recommended to avoid aggressive or territorial substrate-dwelling species and those that require water with different acidity or mineral levels. Aquarists sometimes house Satanoperca spp. with freshwater stingrays from the genus Potamotrygon, though this can sometimes result in the cichlids disappearing at night. S. pappaterra tends to exist in loose aggregations, especially when not breeding, displaying strong grouping instincts, particularly among juveniles. It is advisable to keep a minimum of 5-8 individuals to establish a noticeable dominance hierarchy and prevent excessive antagonism among group members.

Feeding and Diet:

Satanoperca spp. are benthophagous, feeding by taking mouthfuls of substrate and sifting for edible items while expelling the remaining material through their gills and mouth. Wild specimens primarily consume small aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates, plant material, organic detritus, and sediment. To ensure their well-being, a varied diet comprising high-quality prepared foods, small live or frozen invertebrates, and products rich in vegetable matter like Spirulina is recommended. Home-made gelatine-bound recipes have been successful, offering a mix of dried fish food, puréed shellfish, fruits, and vegetables.

Reproduction & Dimorphism:

Satanoperca pappaterra is an ovophilous maternal mouthbrooder that can be bred in aquarium conditions with a good diet and proper maintenance. Sexing these fish accurately can be challenging, making it best to start with a group of young fish and allow pairs to form naturally. Courtship involves males initiating the process, forming territories, and courting gravid females. Eggs are deposited in small batches, with the female immediately collecting and carrying them. Once fry are free-swimming, they accept various foods. Adult females tend to be slightly smaller and deeper-bodied than males, especially when gravid.

Habitat and Distribution:

These cichlids have been observed in main river channels, tributaries, oxbows, floodplain lakes, and occasionally in artificial reservoirs. They prefer substrates of sand or mud with patches of leaf litter and submerged tree branches. Originally native to the rio Guaporé in Brazil and Bolivia, and the upper rio Paraguai in Brazil and northern Paraguay, these basins are connected via the Pantanal wetland during the wettest times of the year. Specimens have also been introduced to the upper rio Paraná in southeastern Brazil.

Aquarium Setup:

The ideal setup for Satanoperca pappaterra includes a soft, sandy substrate to allow natural browsing behavior. Coarser substrates should be avoided to prevent feeding difficulties and internal damage. Additional décor such as driftwood, roots, and branches provide hiding spots. Leaf litter, common in their natural habitat, should be minimized in tanks to prevent water quality issues. Maintaining stable water conditions with a suitable pH (5.5-7.5), hardness (36-179ppm), and temperature (20-28°C) is crucial. Proper filtration, regular water changes, and avoiding high flow rates are essential for their well-being.