Geophagus sp. “Rio Branco”
Geophagus sp. “Rio Branco” is a striking eartheater cichlid known for its elongated finnage, metallic facial markings, and warm earthy body tones. Native to the Rio Branco drainage, this species displays classic Geophagus behaviour — gentle sifting of sand, peaceful temperament, and strong social interaction. A beautiful and rewarding species for medium–large South American community aquariums.
Care Sheet
Scientific Name: Geophagus sp. “Rio Branco”
Common Name: Rio Branco Eartheater
Origin: Rio Branco Basin – Brazil
Temperament: Peaceful, social, substrate-sifting cichlid
Adult Size: 18–22 cm
Life Expectancy: 8–12 years
Difficulty: Moderate (sensitive to water quality)
Minimum Tank Size: 350–450 litres (group of 4–6 recommended)
Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 25–30°C
- pH: 5.5–7.0
- Hardness: Very soft to soft (1–8 dGH)
- Water Flow: Moderate, well-oxygenated
- Lighting: Moderate
Tank Setup:
- Soft sand substrate essential for natural sifting behaviour
- Add driftwood, leaves, smooth rocks, and shaded areas
- Avoid sharp decorations that may damage their delicate gill plates
- Keep in groups of 4–6 to reduce aggression and encourage natural behaviour
- Strong filtration and regular water changes required (sensitive to nitrates)
Feeding:
Omnivorous but prefers protein-rich foods:
- High-quality sinking pellets
- Frozen or live foods: bloodworm, mysis, brine shrimp, blackworms
- Occasional veggie matter (spirulina, algae wafers)
- Avoid overfeeding to prevent digestive issues
Behaviour & Compatibility:
- Peaceful for a medium-large cichlid
- Ideal tank mates include:
- Other peaceful Geophagus
- Severums
- Uaru
- Larger tetras
- Corydoras
- Peaceful plecos
- Avoid highly aggressive species or very small fish
- Territorial during breeding but not overly aggressive
Breeding:
- Pair bonds form naturally within a group
- Substrate-spawning or pit-spawning depending on the pair
- Eggs are guarded; fry often mouthbrooded temporarily
- Fry eat newly hatched brine shrimp and powdered foods
- Best done in a species-only or calm community setting