Meridionalis Eartheater (Argentina)

Gymnogeophagus meridionalis has one of the most southerly distributions of any eartheater, inhabiting the Río de la Plata estuary and lower Uruguay basin in Argentina and Uruguay. It is adapted to cooler, slightly more mineral-rich waters than most cichlids and can tolerate brief exposure to low salinities in the estuarine regions of its range. This remarkable temperature tolerance makes it suitable for unheated aquaria in cool climates and interesting for hobbyists who wish to keep cichlids without supplementary heating. A delayed mouthbrooder, it shows seasonal reproductive behaviour. Fine sand, open areas, and moderate water movement suit its active lifestyle. Compatible with coolwater South American species including Gymnogeophagus relatives, armoured catfish, and temperate characins.

Water: Moderate hardness; pH 6.5–8.0, temperature 14–25 °C. Tank: 120 L+; fine sand, open areas, moderate flow. Feeding: Sinking pellets, frozen bloodworm, tubifex, artemia, live daphnia. Breeding: Delayed mouthbrooder; strong seasonal cycle; cool period essential. Compatibility: Excellent with temperate South American community species.