Large Sveni Geophagus (5-5.5”)

Scientific Name:

Geophagus sveni

Maximum Size and Lifespan:

• Size: Up to 8-10 inches (20 cm) in length.

• Lifespan: Around 8–10 years with proper care.

Recommended Aquarium Size:

• Tank Size (Minimum): 75 gallons (284 liters) for a small group (4–6 individuals).

• 125+ gallons are recommended for optimal comfort, especially when mixed with tankmates.

Water Changes and General Care:

• Water Changes: Perform 30–50% weekly water changes to maintain pristine water quality and reduce nitrate buildup.

• Filtration: High-quality filtration with strong biological and mechanical capacity is essential.

• Substrate: Fine sand is ideal, as Geophagus sveni enjoy sifting through substrate for food. Avoid sharp gravel.

• Decor: Use driftwood, smooth rocks, and leaf litter to mimic natural conditions. Provide open swimming areas and gentle water movement.

• Temperature: 76–82°F (24–28°C)

• pH: 6.0–7.5

Tankmates:

Sveni Geophagus are peaceful for a cichlid and thrive in community settings with similar-tempered species.
Suitable tankmates include:

• Other peaceful Geophagus species, Severums, Angelfish, Plecos, Electric Blue Acara
  

• Avoid aggressive or overly competitive fish (e.g., African cichlids or large predatory species).

Diet:

Geophagus sveni are omnivores with a preference for protein-rich and plant-based foods.
Feed a varied diet including:

• High-quality sinking cichlid pellets

• Frozen foods: bloodworms, brine shrimp, chopped shrimp, mysis shrimp
  

• Occasional spirulina-based flakes or pellets for balanced nutrition.

Feed 1-2 times per day with 1 day of fasting to avoid bloating

Natural Environment Overview:

Native to the Rio Tocantins basin in Brazil, Geophagus sveni inhabit slow-moving rivers and tributaries with sandy or silty bottoms, often littered with decaying leaves and branches.
These environments are typically warm, soft, and slightly acidic, with ample detritus and biofilm for foraging. Their sand-sifting behavior plays a role in their ecological niche, filtering fine particles and microorganisms from the substrate.

Breeding:

• Geophagus sveni are maternal mouthbrooders, though some populations exhibit biparental care depending on environmental conditions.

• Pairing: Best achieved by growing out a group and allowing natural pair formation.

• Spawning Setup:

  • Soft, warm water: 80–82°F (26–28°C)

  • Slightly acidic: pH 6.0–6.5

  • Use sand substrate and flat stones as spawning sites.

• Breeding Behavior:

  • The female (or both parents) will collect fertilized eggs into the mouth.

  • Incubation lasts ~2–3 weeks, after which fry are released and guarded.

  • Fry can be fed with baby brine shrimp, crushed flakes, or powdered fry food.

  • Parent(s) may take fry back into the mouth if threatened.

Ensure fry are separated from aggressive tankmates, and maintain optimal water quality during breeding.

Summary:

The Sveni Geophagus Cichlid (Geophagus sveni) is a peaceful and visually striking South American cichlid ideal for intermediate aquarists. Known for their substrate-sifting behavior, they thrive in naturalistic aquascapes with sandy bottoms and peaceful companions. With appropriate care, water conditions, and diet, they exhibit vibrant colors and fascinating behaviors, especially during breeding.