Parnaiba Eartheater (Geophagus parnaibae) Care Guide
Geophagus parnaibae is an eartheater endemic to the Rio Parnaiba drainage of Brazil, found in sandy brooks and pools.
Overview
Geophagus parnaibae is an eartheater cichlid endemic to the Rio Parnaiba drainage in Brazil, described by Staeck & Schindler in 2006. Like other eartheaters it feeds by sifting substrate for food.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Subfamily: Geophaginae
- Genus: Geophagus
- Scientific name: Geophagus parnaibae
Habitat
According to FishBase the species occurs in the Rio Parnaiba drainage in Brazil. It inhabits sandy-bottomed brooks and small rivers with strong currents during the rainy season, and is also found in pools and ponds of stagnant water during dry periods. FishBase notes a temperature range of 24–31 °C and pH of 6.5–7.6 for the species.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 350 L
- Temperature: 24–28 °C (75–82 °F)
- pH: 6.5–7.8
- 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 parnaibae as Least Concern (assessed 7 November 2018).