Fishician®Diet
Omnivore – sand-sifting; cichlid pellets, frozen Daphnia, earthworms
Aquarium species profile
Geophagus sveni
Geophagus sveni · Brazil (Rio Tocantins basin)
Minimum tank75 gal
Adult size9"
Care levelModerate
TemperamentPeaceful
Temperature78–84°F
pH range6.0–7.5
Compatible tank mates
Large tetras, peaceful South American cichlids, Corydoras, Plecos
Tank mates to avoid
Very aggressive cichlids, fin-nippers
Care notes
Earth-eater cichlid that sifts fine sand for food — provide a sandy substrate. Large, peaceful, and social. Males develop extended fins and colorful markings. Mouthbrooder. One of the more manageable Geophagus species.
Check the whole aquarium. Tank size alone does not establish compatibility. Confirm adult size, water overlap, social grouping, territory, diet, and the individual animals before stocking.