Geophagus surinamensis (Surinam Earth Eater)
 
Geophagus surinamensis is a beautiful, peaceful South American cichlid known for its gentle nature and constant sand-sifting behaviour. With its iridescent blues, reds, and greens and elegant elongated fins, this species makes a stunning centrepiece for large community aquariums. Earth Eaters are best kept in groups and require soft, sandy substrate to allow their natural foraging behaviour.
 
Care Sheet
Scientific Name: Geophagus surinamensis
Common Name: Surinam Earth Eater
Origin: Northern South America (Suriname, Guyana, Brazil)
Temperament: Peaceful, social
Adult Size: 20–25 cm
Life Expectancy: 8–10+ years
Difficulty: Intermediate
Minimum Tank Size: 300 litres (larger for groups)
 
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 24–28°C
pH: 5.5–7.0
Hardness: Soft
Water Flow: Moderate
Lighting: Moderate
 
Tank Setup:
Soft sand substrate (essential for sifting behaviour)
Driftwood, smooth stones, and leaf litter
Hardy plants or floating plants (they may uproot delicate species)
Provide open areas for foraging and space for a group
Excellent filtration — they appreciate clean, oxygen-rich water
 
Feeding:
Omnivorous, prefers a varied diet:
High-quality sinking pellets
Frozen foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp, mysis, daphnia)
Live worms and insect larvae
Vegetable-based sinking wafers
Avoid sharp or large gravel that may damage their gills while sifting
 
Behaviour & Compatibility:
Very peaceful for their size
Best kept in groups of 4–6+
Will sift sand constantly but rarely disturb tank mates
Suitable tank mates:
Peaceful medium- to large-sized cichlids
Silver dollars
Larger tetras
Peaceful catfish (Corydoras, Brochis, larger plecos)
Avoid highly aggressive cichlids or fish too small to coexist safely
 
Breeding:
Substrate spawner
Form monogamous pairs
Both parents guard eggs and fry
Requires warm, soft, very clean water for best success
Fry feed on baby brine shrimp and powdered fry foods