Altamira Eartheater

Geophagus sp. 'Altamira' is an undescribed eartheater collected from clear-water habitats of the lower Xingu river drainage near the city of Altamira in Pará, Brazil. This region harbours remarkable cichlid diversity, and this species is distinguished by a crisp lateral stripe running from snout to caudal peduncle and vivid orange-yellow pelvic fins that contrast with its silver-green body. A sand-sifting mouthbrooder, it forms loose groups in the wild and requires fine substrate for natural foraging behaviour. The clear, warm, moderately soft waters of the Xingu define its care requirements. Provide steady water conditions with moderate current and open sandy areas. Compatible with other Xingu-basin species of similar size.

Water: Soft to moderately soft; pH 6.0–7.0, temperature 25–29 °C, well-oxygenated. Tank: 250 L+; fine sand, moderate flow, open areas. Feeding: Sinking pellets, frozen bloodworm, daphnia, and artemia. Breeding: Delayed mouthbrooder; group spawn; separate brooding female if harassed. Compatibility: Good with peaceful mid-large tetras and rheophilic catfish.