Biotodoma wavrini

Biotodoma wavrini is a small eartheater cichlid found in the Orinoco and upper Rio Negro drainages in Venezuela and Colombia. It is characterised by a striking round dark spot on the flank and a soft blue-green iridescent body. Unlike the larger eartheaters, it stays at a manageable size and can be kept in a moderately sized aquarium, though it still benefits from fine sand for its natural sifting behaviour.

Water: 25-29°C, pH 5.5-7.0, GH 1-8, KH 0-3; soft to moderately soft conditions preferred. Tank: 120L minimum; deep fine sand substrate essential for substrate sifting behaviour. Feeding: Omnivore; sifts sand for small invertebrates; accepts frozen bloodworms and quality pellets. Behaviour: Peaceful and generally non-aggressive; can be kept in small groups. Compatibility: Good with small tetras and pencilfish; avoid aggressive or much larger cichlids.