Leucosticta Eartheater

Satanoperca leucosticta — the white-spotted eartheater — is a stocky, attractively marked species from the Suriname and Essequibo river systems of Suriname and Guyana. Its bronze-green body is covered in rows of white to pale-blue iridescent spots that intensify under good conditions. Compared to the more blackwater-adapted members of its genus, S. leucosticta shows a degree of tolerance for moderate water hardness, making it accessible to hobbyists who cannot maintain extremely soft water. A delayed mouthbrooder, it sifts sand continuously and benefits from deep fine substrate and open swimming areas. Provide driftwood and leaf litter for visual shelter and tannin contribution. Compatible with larger, peaceful South American community fish.

Water: Soft to slightly hard; pH 6.0–7.2, temperature 24–28 °C. Tank: 200 L+; fine sand, driftwood, leaf litter for tannins. Feeding: Sinking pellets, frozen bloodworm, artemia, daphnia. Breeding: Delayed mouthbrooder; group of 5+ recommended. Compatibility: Peaceful with large tetras, other eartheaters, and catfish.