Gurupi Geophagus Mouthbrooding Cichlid (2.5”)

Species Overview

• Scientific Name: Geophagus sp. "Gurupi"

• Common Name: Gurupi Geophagus

• Family: Cichlidae

• Origin: Gurupi River Basin, Maranhão and Pará states, northeastern Brazil

• Temperament: Peaceful to moderately territorial, especially during breeding

• Lifespan: 8–10 years in captivity

 Habitat

• Natural Environment:
  Found in clearwater or blackwater tributaries with sandy or muddy substrates. Their habitats are typically shallow, slow-moving waters with leaf litter, submerged roots, and minimal vegetation.

• Water Conditions:

  • Temperature: 77–84°F (25–29°C)

  • pH: 6.5–7.5

Diet

• Omnivorous (Earth-Eater):
  In the wild, they feed by sifting through sand and detritus, consuming:

  • Small invertebrates

  • Organic matter

  • Plant debris

  • Algae

• In Captivity:
  A balanced diet includes:

  • High-quality sinking cichlid pellets

  • Frozen or live foods (bloodworms, blackworms, daphnia, brine shrimp)

  • Occasional vegetable matter (blanched spinach, peas)

  • Sand substrate is essential to allow natural feeding behavior (they mouth and expel sand constantly)

• Adult Size: Typically 20–25 cm (8–10 inches)

• Males may grow slightly larger and develop extended fin rays

 Recommended Aquarium Size

• Minimum Tank Size:

  • 75 gallons (284 liters) for a small group

  • 120–150 gallons (450–570 liters) recommended for long-term care or community setups

• Tank Setup:

  • Soft sand substrate is essential for sifting behavior

  • Driftwood, leaf litter, and rounded rocks for natural decor

  • Minimal sharp objects (to avoid mouth injuries)

  • Moderate water flow and strong biological filtration

  • Subdued lighting and tannins (optional, but appreciated)

• Tank Mates:

  • Best kept in groups of 5– 6 (to reduce aggression and form natural hierarchy)

  • Suitable tank mates:

    • Peaceful South American cichlids (e.g., Satanoperca, Severum)

    • Tetras (larger species), headstanders, Corydoras

    • Avoid overly aggressive or very small species

 Notes on Behavior and Care

• Mouthbrooding species — females (sometimes both parents) incubate eggs and fry in their mouths

• Can be territorial during breeding but are generally peaceful and social

• Sensitive to poor water quality, requiring frequent water changes

• Do best in biotope or softwater community tanks