Carajas Eartheater

Geophagus sp. 'Carajas' originates from the Itacaiúnas river drainage in the Carajás mining region of Pará state, Brazil — a river that flows through ancient iron-rich highlands before joining the Tocantins. The species shows a high-contrast body pattern with a prominent dark lateral blotch and faint iridescent scaling that intensifies under ideal conditions. It inhabits warm, ion-poor, slightly acidic clear-to-blackwater streams and river margins. In the aquarium it requires very warm, very soft water and fine sand substrate at least 5 cm deep for uninterrupted sifting behaviour. A delayed mouthbrooder, it is best kept in groups of five or more. Sensitive to poor water quality; pristine filtration is essential.

Water: Very soft; pH 5.5–6.8, temperature 26–30 °C, low conductivity. Tank: 200 L+; fine sand base, driftwood, subdued lighting. Feeding: Sinking pellets, live and frozen invertebrates, varied diet. Breeding: Delayed mouthbrooder; brooding female should have refuge. Compatibility: Keep with other warm-water, soft-water species of similar size.