The Geophagus sveni, commonly known as Sven's Eartheater Cichlid, is a captivating species originating from the Amazon River basin in South America. These large earth-eating cichlids are renowned for their striking appearance, featuring bright blue and red stripes, along with long, filamentous fin extensions, making them one of the most visually appealing species in the hobby.
With their earth-eating habits, Sven's Eartheater Cichlids require a sandy substrate in the aquarium. They continuously sift through the sand in search of food, making this substrate essential for their natural behavior. The Sveni typically display a base coloration ranging from tan to gray, adorned with slight vertical banding (8-10 bars) and iridescent gold to green scales on their flanks. Their heads showcase vibrant orange-red hues, complemented by gold-green to orange-red markings on their translucent fins. Additionally, they have a distinct black ocellus spot on and below their upper lateral line.
To accommodate Sven's Eartheater Cichlids, a spacious aquarium of at least 200 liters is recommended, along with multiple shelters such as driftwood, rock structures, or dense vegetation. Live plants that attach to driftwood and rocks, or potted plants, are advisable, as Sveni may snack on some live plant species while sifting and burrowing through the substrate.
These cichlids prefer warm, soft, acidic, and clean water conditions, along with subdued lighting to mimic their natural habitat. They thrive in groups and are relatively peaceful, although tank mates should be chosen carefully, preferably of comparable size.
As omnivores, Sven's Eartheater Cichlids feed primarily from the bottom of the aquarium, but they will also surface for frozen bloodworms. A varied diet consisting of live, prepared, frozen, or freeze-dried foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, blackworms, krill, flake food, and soft, sinking cichlid pellets is essential for their health and vitality.
 
Specifications:
Species: Geophagus sp. “Sveni”
Common Name: Sven's Eartheater Cichlid
Origin: Amazon River basin of South America
Diet: Omnivore
pH Range: 5.5-6.5
Temperature: Tropical 24–29°C
Breed Type: Egg layer
Max Size: Approximately 15cm
Sex: Un-sexed