Owroewefi Cichlid

Guianacara owroewefi was described from the Suriname and Marowijne (Maroni) river systems of Suriname. Its name derives from an indigenous word. It closely resembles G. geayi but is distinguished by differences in colour pattern and scale counts. The species inhabits clear, sandy-bottomed river margins and is an active digger in the substrate. It is a cave spawner with biparental brood care. In captivity it is moderately hardy and adapts to a range of soft-water conditions, tolerating somewhat higher pH than purely blackwater species. Provide rocky caves or driftwood structures alongside open sand, moderate water movement, and good filtration. It is compatible with robust, similarly sized South American community species. Males establish territories but are not excessively aggressive outside of spawning.

Water: Soft to moderately soft; pH 5.5–7.2, temperature 24–28 °C. Tank: 150 L+; caves, driftwood, open sandy areas. Feeding: Sinking pellets, frozen bloodworm, artemia, daphnia. Breeding: Cave spawner; biparental brood care; stable water improves success. Compatibility: Good with robust medium-sized South American species.