Altifrons Eartheater (Rio Negro)

Geophagus altifrons from the Rio Negro is among the most striking eartheaters in the hobby. This locality form has adapted to the extremely soft, acidic blackwaters of the Rio Negro basin and shows more intense iridescent colouration than populations from harder water systems. Males develop a pronounced nuchal hump and sweeping fin extensions with maturity.

A deep fine black-sand substrate is essential, replicating the dark riverbeds of its native habitat. Water should be soft, warm, and tinted with botanicals or peat filtration. Strong circulation is appreciated as the Rio Negro is a large, flowing river system. Keep in groups of five or more to distribute aggression.

This form is particularly sensitive to water quality deterioration and requires consistent maintenance. Feed a varied diet of quality sinking foods supplemented with live invertebrates to maintain health and colour. Patience is rewarded with a magnificent long-lived display fish.

Water: 26-30°C, pH 4.5-6.5, very soft (0-4 dGH); blackwater conditions with tannins highly beneficial. Tank: Minimum 300L; deep black fine sand, driftwood, Indian almond leaves; dim lighting preferred. Feeding: Sinking eartheater pellets, live and frozen bloodworm, daphnia, chopped earthworm. Breeding: Biparental mouthbrooder; males develop strong hump pre-spawning; condition on live foods. Compatibility: Semi-aggressive; best with other soft-water South American cichlids of comparable size.