Geophagus Surinamensis 10-12CM

Geophagus Surinamensis 10-12CM

The largest and most commonly seen of its clan, Geophagus altifrons is frequently misidentified as the very rarely seen G. surinamensis. This is why we’ve used it as a common name, as well as the fact that altifrons doesn’t have one.

Known from most tributaries of the lower-middle Amazon River, including the Rio Madeira, Rio Negro, Rio Paru, Rio Purus, Rio Tapajós, Rio Trombetas, and the Rio Xingu. Here, it is most often encountered in clear or black water environments with muddy or sandy substrates, strewn with submerged branches/roots and smooth rocks. The aquarium should be biologically mature and spacious, with a large expanse of soft sand substrate as these fish like to sift through the substrate in their ongoing search for food items. Provide plenty of hiding places amongst tangles of driftwood, rocky caves, and robust planting cultivated on the wood (such as Anubias sp. or Java Fern). Vegetation planted into the substrate is likely to be disturbed as these fishes forage, so is best avoided. Filtration should be efficient with areas of moderate water movement and some calmer resting spots out of the current. Frequent partial water changes will help keep nitrate to a minimum, particularly important as this species is sensitive to deteriorating water conditions. Unless breeding, G. altifrons is generally peaceful, and in the wild is found in loose aggregations. In the aquarium, this species is best maintained in groups of 6 or more so that a natural hierarchy can form. This will not only meet their social needs but it will help spread any minor aggression. Tankmates too large to swallow are generally ignored, especially if they occupy the upper levels of the water column. Despite their size, these are relatively unaggressive cichlids and can be seen sharing large aquaria with anything from Freshwater stingrays to deep-bodied tetras.

Pictures are of the fish in stock, if require any more please get in touch

all sizes are approx