Pearl Cichlid - (Geophagus brasiliensis)

🐟 Pearl Cichlid – (Geophagus brasiliensis) – South American Cichlid for Sale

The Pearl Cichlid (Geophagus brasiliensis) is a hardy and striking South American species admired for its shimmering, pearl-like spots and graceful shape. Native to the rivers and coastal lagoons of Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina, this intelligent cichlid is active, engaging, and full of personality. While generally peaceful for a cichlid, it can become territorial during breeding.

🔎 Quick Facts – Pearl Cichlid (Geophagus brasiliensis)

• 📛 Common Name: Pearl Cichlid
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Geophagus brasiliensis
• 🌍 Origin: Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina
• 🎨 Appearance: Silvery to golden body with iridescent pearl-like spots and flowing fins
• 📏 Max Size: 8–12 inches (20–30 cm)
• 💎 Availability: Aquarium-bred and wild-caught South American cichlid for sale

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• 🐟 Active, intelligent, and curious
• ⚠️ Semi-aggressive – peaceful when not breeding, territorial during spawning
• 🪵 Natural sand-sifter – scoops substrate in search of food
• 🤝 Best with medium-to-large, equally robust tankmates

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 55+ gallons for a pair
• 🌿 Fine sand substrate to encourage natural foraging
• 🪵 Include driftwood, rocks, and open swimming areas
• 💡 Moderate lighting to enhance colors

💧 Water Parameters – Pearl Cichlid Care

• 🌡️ Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 6.5–7.5
• 💧 Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

🍽️ Diet – Omnivorous Cichlid

• 🦐 Frozen or live foods: brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia
• 🌾 High-quality cichlid pellets and flakes
• 🥬 Blanched vegetables: spinach, peas, zucchini

📋 Pearl Cichlid Care Overview Table

✨ Highlight:

• Hardy and adaptable, the Pearl Cichlid is ideal for aquarists seeking a colorful, engaging, and active centerpiece fish for a medium-to-large South American setup.