Fishician®Diet
Omnivore – cichlid pellets, earthworms, frozen foods, sand-sifted invertebrates
Aquarium species profile
Pearl Cichlid
Geophagus brasiliensis · South America (coastal Brazil)
Minimum tank75 gal
Adult size11"
Care levelModerate
TemperamentSemi-Aggressive
Temperature68–79°F
pH range6.5–7.5
Compatible tank mates
Robust South American cichlids, large catfish
Tank mates to avoid
Small fish, delicate species
Care notes
Large substrate-sifting cichlid covered in pearl-like iridescent spots. Unlike most Geophagus, this species is a substrate spawner, not a mouthbrooder. Tolerates cooler temperatures. Hardy and adaptable.
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.