Red Hump Eartheater (Geophagus steindacneri)

Red Hump Eartheaters (Geophagus steindacneri) take their name from the bright red nuchal hump that is present on dominant mature males, who also develop beautiful blue/green iridescence scales on their sides. A peaceful fish, they grow to a maximum size of 6 inches, with the males being larger than the females.

The sociable Red Hump Geos prefer living in schools of at least four, although a breeding pair also works well together. Immediate maternal mouthbreeders, the females will take the fertilized eggs into her mouth and carry them for 2-3 weeks: until the yolk sacs are absorbed and they are free-swimming. During that time she eats little to no food. Once they are free-swimming, she takes the fry into her mouth only if she senses danger.

They need a soft, sandy substrate floor as they take it into their mouths and sift out the edible morsels. Gravel causes gill damage and should not be used. 

Water Conditions:

5.0 - 8.0 pH

70 - 80 F

2 - 15 KH

Breeding: Captive bred by us.