Camopiensis Eartheater

Geophagus camopiensis is a mid-sized eartheater native to the Camopi and Oyapock river drainages of French Guiana and adjacent Brazil. It inhabits slow-moving, sandy-bottomed forest streams and river margins where it continuously sifts substrate for invertebrates and organic matter. Adults develop attractive iridescent scale patterning across the flanks and subdued orange margins on the unpaired fins. As a delayed mouthbrooder it forms loose spawning groups. It is a peaceful, forgiving species tolerant of slightly varying water conditions compared to many Geophagus. Provide a deep sand substrate of at least 5 cm, gentle filtration, and driftwood or leaf litter for shelter. Keep in groups of five or more for best social behaviour.

Water: Soft to moderately soft; pH 5.5–7.0, temperature 24–28 °C, low nitrates. Tank: 200 L minimum; deep fine sand, driftwood, minimal plants. Feeding: High-quality sinking pellets, frozen bloodworm, daphnia, and artemia. Breeding: Delayed mouthbrooder; spawns in groups; fry released after 10–14 days. Compatibility: Peaceful with large tetras, other eartheaters, and calm catfish.