Silver-Spotted Eartheater (Geophagus argyrostictus) Care Guide
Geophagus argyrostictus is a Rio Xingú eartheater that is more aggressive than most relatives and needs a group.
Overview
Geophagus argyrostictus is an eartheater cichlid associated with the Rio Xingú in Brazil. FishBase records a maximum total length of about 24.2 cm. Among Geophagus it stands out as more aggressive than most congeners, which influences its tank-mate selection.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Subfamily: Geophaginae
- Genus: Geophagus
- Scientific name: Geophagus argyrostictus
Habitat
FishBase places the species in the Amazon River basin, in the Xingu River from Cachoeira von Martius to Belo Monte, and in the Curuá River basin. Seriously Fish describes rocky shore areas with clear water and gently sloping marginal zones with sand, fine gravel and mud, sometimes with scattered rocks, submerged roots and branches.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 350 L
- Temperature: 26–30 °C (79–86 °F)
- pH: 6.0–7.5
- GH: 1–4 °dGH
- Group size: 5 or more individuals
- Lifespan: 8–12 years
Diet
Seriously Fish describes the species as a benthophagous substrate-sifter. In the aquarium it takes small live or frozen bloodworm, Tubifex and Artemia alongside high-quality fine-grade prepared foods, with vegetable matter such as Spirulina included; several small portions per day are recommended.
Compatibility
Seriously Fish notes that Geophagus argyrostictus is markedly more aggressive than most other Geophagus species. Groups of five to eight individuals help diffuse aggression. It can coexist with small characids, while other cichlids are generally best avoided.
Breeding
According to Seriously Fish it is a substrate spawner depositing roughly 200–250 eggs, which hatch in about three days at 27 °C; both parents typically guard the fry.
Conservation status
The IUCN Red List classifies Geophagus argyrostictus as Least Concern (assessed 7 November 2018).