Grammepareius Eartheater

Geophagus grammepareius is a medium-sized eartheater from the Caura and Cuyuní river systems in Venezuela. Its most distinctive feature is a bold dark horizontal stripe running along the cheek and lower jaw, contrasted against iridescent blue-green body scaling. This species is closely related to G. taeniopareius and the two share general care requirements.

As a Guiana Shield eartheater, this species inhabits clear to slightly tannin-stained, soft, acidic rivers. Aquarium conditions should reflect this: clean, soft acidic water with botanical additions and fine sand substrate. Keep in groups for best display and social behaviour.

Spawning follows the biparental mouthbrooding pattern of the genus. Males display heightened cheek stripe colouration and extended finnage when competing for female attention. A well-fed group in stable conditions will typically spawn without special intervention.

Water: 25-29°C, pH 5.5-7.0, soft (1-6 dGH); tannin-rich conditions from leaf litter or peat filtration ideal. Tank: Minimum 200L; fine sand, driftwood and Indian almond leaves, moderate flow. Feeding: Sinking granules, frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp, daphnia; live food supplements breeding readiness. Breeding: Biparental mouthbrooder; cheek stripe intensifies in males; breed readily in stable group. Compatibility: Semi-aggressive; suitable with medium tetras, pencilfish, and corydoras catfish.