Red Horseface Eartheater (Geophagus surinamensis)

The Red Horseface Eartheater is a majestic and highly active cichlid that brings a sense of constant motion to the aquarium. Known for its distinct "horse-like" facial profile, this fish spends its life sifting through the sand in search of food. Its body features a stunning mix of iridescent blue-green scales over a golden-tan base, with deep red striations in the tail and dorsal fins. They are intelligent, peaceful, and provide a fascinating look into the complex social behaviors of Amazonian river fish.

Key Information

• Common Name: Red Horseface Eartheater, Surinamensis

• Scientific Name: Geophagus surinamensis

• Origin: South America (Suriname, French Guiana, and Brazil)

• Max Size: 20–25 cm

• Lifespan: 10–15 years

• Temperament: Peaceful (Territorial only when breeding)

• Diet: Omnivore – Requires high-quality sinking pellets, frozen mysis shrimp, and bloodworms.

• Care Level: Moderate

Water Parameters

Parameter	Value
Temperature:	26–30°C
pH:	6.0–7.5
Hardness:	5–15 dGH
Minimum Tank Size:	300L+

Behaviour & Tank Compatibility

These are social fish that must be kept in a group of 5 or more to feel secure and establish a natural social hierarchy. They are exceptionally peaceful for their size and make perfect companions for other soft-water giants. Ideal tank mates include Severums, Angelfish, Uaru, and large schools of deep-bodied Tetras like Bleeding Hearts. Avoid keeping them with aggressive cichlids that might bully them away from their feeding grounds on the substrate.

Ideal Tank Setup

• Fine Sand Substrate: Mandatory. As their name suggests, they "eat earth." They sift sand through their gills to filter out food particles. Gravel can lodge in their gills or cause mouth rot.

• Large Footprint: They are active foragers; a tank with a wide base is much better than a tall, narrow one.

• Driftwood and Rocks: Use smooth river stones and vertical driftwood to provide hiding spots without taking up too much of the precious floor space they use for sifting.

• High-Quality Filtration: The constant sifting of sand can lead to cloudiness. Use a powerful canister filter with plenty of mechanical filtration to keep the water crystal clear.

• Frequent Water Changes: They are sensitive to "old" water and high nitrates. A strict 25-30% weekly water change is recommended.