Red Striped Eartheater Cichlid - (Geophagus surinamensis)

🐟 Red Striped Eartheater Cichlid – (Geophagus surinamensis) – Elegant South American Sand-Sifting Cichlid for Sale

The Red Striped Eartheater (Geophagus surinamensis) is a graceful South American cichlid famous for its beautiful red horizontal stripes, elongated fins, and peaceful nature. Native to slow-moving rivers and floodplains of Suriname, Guyana, and Brazil, this species is a natural sand-sifter—constantly taking in mouthfuls of substrate to filter out food.

When cared for properly in a spacious, well-decorated aquarium, these fish display vibrant reds, iridescent blues, and shimmering gold tones, making them a stunning centerpiece for a peaceful cichlid community.

🔎 Quick Facts – Red Striped Eartheater (Geophagus surinamensis)

• 📛 Common Names: Red Striped Eartheater, Surinam Eartheater
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Geophagus surinamensis
• 🌍 Origin: Suriname, Guyana, and northern Brazil
• 🎨 Appearance: Silvery-gold base color with vivid red stripes and blue-green facial markings
• 📏 Max Size: 8–10 inches (20–25 cm)
• 💎 Availability: Occasionally available; mostly captive-bred

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• 🤝 Peaceful for a large cichlid; best in groups of 5+
• 🪵 Constantly sifts sand for food—requires sandy substrate
• 👫 Forms monogamous pairs when breeding
• 🐟 Compatible with other peaceful South American cichlids, large tetras, and catfish

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 75+ gallons for a small group
• 🌿 Sandy substrate (essential for natural feeding behavior)
• 🪵 Driftwood, smooth rocks, and open swimming space
• 💡 Moderate lighting to bring out colors
• 🌊 Gentle to moderate water flow with high oxygenation

💧 Water Parameters – Red Striped Eartheater Care

• 🌡️ Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 6.0–7.5
• 💧 Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water

🍽️ Diet – Omnivorous (Sand Sifter)

• 🌾 High-quality cichlid pellets and granules
• 🦐 Frozen brine shrimp, mysis shrimp
• 🪱 Bloodworms, blackworms (as treats)
• 🥬 Spirulina-based foods for enhanced color

📋 Red Striped Eartheater Care Overview Table

✨ Highlight:

• The Red Striped Eartheater is an eye-catching, peaceful sand-sifter that adds both color and fascinating natural behavior to large, well-decorated South American aquariums.