Scientific name: Geophagus brasiliensis

Common name: Pearl cichlid

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 25 - 30 cm (9.84 - 11.81 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.6 - 7.3

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 5 - 19°N (89.29 - 339.29ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 21 - 25 °C (69.8 - 77°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South America

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: aggressive to smaller

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Food and feeding

Use a quality flake or cichlid pellets for the staple diet. It is important to vary their foods with the addition of live or frozen foods as treats. Pearl cichlids will consume blood worms, chopped earthworms and brine shrimp.

Origin

South America; Pearl cichlids are to be found in the waterways of Brazil and Uruguay.

Sexing

There are no visible differences between the sexes. When mature, females may be slightly smaller.

Breeding

Provide spawning sites by adding upturned plant pots or artificial caves to the breeding tank. The eggs will be laid on the roof of the cave and the female will tend the nest while the male guards the territory. After 3-4 days the eggs should hatch and a few days after that the fry will be free swimming. Initially, the fry can be fed on newly hatched brine shrimp and they will grow very quickly. A couple of weeks later, they should accept crushed flake.

Lifespan

The expected life span for Geophagus brasiliensis is 10-15 years.

Short description

Provide Geophagus brasiliensis with hiding places made from wood or rocks. They prefer a gentle water flow with soft to neutral water conditions.