Iporanga Eartheater (Geophagus iporangensis) Care Guide
Geophagus iporangensis is a Brazilian eartheater from the Ribeira de Iguape basin, long confused with related coastal species.
Overview
Geophagus iporangensis is an eartheater cichlid from southeastern Brazil, described by Haseman in 1911. It belongs to the coastal Geophagus assemblage related to G. brasiliensis. Like other eartheaters it feeds by sifting substrate.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Subfamily: Geophaginae
- Genus: Geophagus
- Scientific name: Geophagus iporangensis
Habitat
According to FishBase the species occurs in the Ribeira de Iguape River basin in Brazil. It is a freshwater, benthopelagic species of tropical climate.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 350 L
- Temperature: 18–28 °C (64–82 °F)
- pH: 6.0–7.5
- GH: 5–15 °dGH
- Lifespan: 8–12 years
Diet
As an eartheater the species is an omnivore that sifts substrate to extract small invertebrates and organic material. In the aquarium it accepts fine-grade prepared foods alongside small live and frozen items.
Conservation status
The IUCN Red List classifies Geophagus iporangensis as Least Concern (assessed 18 May 2022).