Jurupari Eartheater (Lower Amazon)

Satanoperca jurupari — historically known as the demon eartheater — is a classic South American cichlid with a broad distribution across the Amazon and Orinoco lowlands. The lower Amazon population treated here is slightly larger and more prominently spotted on the head and cheeks than Tapajós populations. A delayed mouthbrooder, it forms loose groups and spawns communally, with multiple females brooding simultaneously in the same aquarium. Its sand-sifting behaviour is continuous and efficient. Unlike more delicate Satanoperca, S. jurupari is moderately adaptable to slightly harder water. It is peaceful with large tankmates and makes a superb community cichlid for large South American biotope displays alongside large tetras, peaceful catfish, and other eartheaters. Provide generous open sand and stable warm conditions.

Water: Soft to moderately soft; pH 6.0–7.2, temperature 24–28 °C. Tank: 300 L+; fine sand, open areas, driftwood for shelter. Feeding: Sinking cichlid pellets, frozen bloodworm, artemia, mysis. Breeding: Delayed mouthbrooder; group spawning; stable conditions important. Compatibility: Excellent large community fish with tetras, catfish, and peaceful cichlids.