Geophagus Sveni 4cm

Overview

Geophagus sveni is an eartheater from the Tocantins basin of Brazil, showing iridescent blue and green scale rows, a dark flank blotch and long fin extensions in mature males. Like its relatives it forages by sifting sand through its gills, a calm and captivating habit. It suits keepers with a large, sandy soft-water tank who can house a group.

• Adult Size: Around 17 cm (7 in); males larger with longer fins
• Lifespan: 8–10 years

Origin

• Native to: Tocantins basin, Brazil
• Habitat: Sandy and pebbly margins near large submerged roots

Feeding

• Diet: Omnivorous; benthic sifter
• Preferred Foods: Fine sinking granules, bloodworm, brine shrimp, daphnia, mosquito larvae, spirulina
• Feeding Habits: Three or four small portions daily; small foods only

Tank Mates

• Best with: Own kind in groups, larger tetras, angelfish, peaceful Amazon cichlids
• Avoid: Small fish, shrimp, aggressive cichlids, competing bottom sifters

Aggression & Behaviour

• Temperament: Generally peaceful outside breeding
• Territoriality: Rival males spar; a group diffuses this

Experience Level

• Difficulty: Intermediate
• Challenges: Needs sand, a group and stable low-nitrate water

Water Parameters

• Water Type: Freshwater, soft and slightly acidic
• Temperature: 23–28°C (73–82°F)
• pH: 5.8–7.0
• Hardness: 2–10 dGH
• Flow: Slow to moderate
• Tank Size: Minimum 450 litres for a group of five or more

Final Notes

Keep five or more so squabbles are spread across the group and a pair can form naturally; sexing juveniles is unreliable. A fine sand substrate is essential, and rooted plants will be dug up, so attach them to wood. It is a biparental substrate spawner, with both parents guarding eggs and fry. Still uncommon in the hobby, it is a rewarding choice for a dedicated eartheater tank.