Paraguay Eartheater
Gymnogeophagus balzanii
Cichlidae
About
The Paraguay eartheater is a subtropical South American cichlid from the Paraguay and Paraná river drainages, where mature males develop a striking bulbous head hump that gives it the nickname balloon eartheater. Unlike most tropical cichlids it prefers distinctly cooler water and benefits from a cool winter rest, spending its days sifting fine sand for food with a calm, deliberate temperament.
Care
Keep over fine sand in a spacious 250 L+ tank, ideally as one male with several females. Provide cooler water than typical tropicals (around 21-24 C) with a seasonal winter cooling period; males are quarrelsome with rivals but peaceful toward tankmates.
Diet
Sand-sifting omnivore that filters substrate for micro-invertebrates and detritus; feed sinking granules and frozen foods with some vegetable matter, and always supply fine sand for natural feeding.
Tankmate compatibility
Gets along with (21)
Possible with care (93)
Computed by the AquaSage engine for a spacious reference tank — always check the full verdict for your exact setup in the calculator.