LARGE Heckelii Geophagus (5.5-6”)

Species Overview

• Scientific Name: Geophagus heckelii

• Common Names: Heckelii Geophagus, Threadfin Eartheater, Red Shoulder Eartheater

• Family: Cichlidae (subfamily: Geophaginae)

• Origin: Northern South America — primarily Amazon and Orinoco basins, including parts of Brazil, Guyana, and Venezuela

• Temperament: Peaceful to moderately territorial, especially during breeding

• Lifespan: 8–12 years

 Habitat

• Natural Environment:
  Inhabits slow to moderately flowing rivers, flooded forest regions, and sandy-bottomed tributaries with leaf litter and detritus. The water is typically warm, soft, and slightly acidic.

• Water Conditions:

  • Temperature: 76–84°F (24–29°C)

  • pH: 6.0–7.2

  • Hardness: 2–12 dGH

  • Requires well-oxygenated, clean water with minimal current

Diet

• Omnivorous substrate-sifter:
  In the wild, G. heckelii filters mouthfuls of sand to consume:

  • Invertebrates

  • Small crustaceans

  • Organic debris

  • Plant matter

• In Captivity:

  • High-quality sinking pellets (e.g., cichlid or omnivore formula)

  • Frozen/live foods: bloodworms, brine shrimp, blackworms

  • Occasional blanched vegetables: spinach, zucchini

  • Algae wafers or spirulina-based foods for fiber

Note: Feed a varied diet to enhance coloration and maintain overall health.

 Maximum Size

• Adult Size:

  • Typically 8–10 inches (20–25 cm)

  • Males may reach the higher end of this range and display longer fin extensions

• Growth Rate:
  Moderate; can grow quickly when young with consistent feeding and water quality

 Recommended Aquarium Size

• Minimum Tank Size:

  • 75 gallons (284 liters) for a single adult or pair

  • 120+ gallons (450+ liters) recommended for groups or community setups

• Tank Setup:

  • Substrate: Fine sand — essential for natural sifting behavior

  • Decor:

    • Driftwood, smooth rocks, root structures

    • Use decorations to break lines of sight

    • Avoid sharp objects that may damage long fins

  • Plants: Can be kept with hardy rooted or floating plants (e.g., Anubias, Java fern), though some digging may occur

  • Filtration: Strong biological filtration + regular water changes

  • Water Flow: Gentle to moderate; prefers calm zones for resting

 Tank Mates

• Generally Peaceful with Caution:
  Can be kept with other South American cichlids and peaceful large fish, such as:

  • Severums, Uaru, other types of Geophagus

  • Angelfish 

  • Silver dollars, Congo tetras, Rainbowfish

  • Bottom dwellers such as Corydoras, Synodontis, or plecos

• Avoid:

  • Highly aggressive cichlids (e.g., Green Terrors, Red Devils)

  • Small fish that may be seen as food

  • Fin-nipping species

Best kept in groups of 5–6 to reduce aggression and promote natural schooling behavior — though they may form pairs in smaller setups.

 Notes on Behavior and Care

• Known for graceful swimming and subtle dominance displays

• Can be territorial during breeding, but not overly aggressive

• Digging is part of their feeding and nesting behavior — secure decor and use fine sand

• Water quality is crucial — they are sensitive to nitrate buildup

• Will readily spawn in captivity with the right conditions (soft, warm water and a spawning surface)