Rhabdotus Eartheater (Laguna dos Patos)

Gymnogeophagus rhabdotus is a compact, hardy eartheater found across the Laguna dos Patos drainage basin of southern Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina — one of South America's southernmost cichlid distributions. Its body is decorated with a prominent dark lateral stripe and rows of iridescent scales that catch light attractively. As one of the smallest and easiest Gymnogeophagus, it adapts to a broad range of water parameters and accepts most prepared foods readily. A delayed mouthbrooder, it is seasonally reproductive and benefits from temperature cycling. Fine sand substrate, open areas for foraging, and moderate filtration provide ideal conditions. Compatible with temperate South American characins, other Gymnogeophagus, and similarly sized coolwater fish. A great entry-level eartheater for hobbyists in temperate climates.

Water: Moderate hardness; pH 6.5–7.8, temperature 16–26 °C. Tank: 120 L+; fine sand, open areas, moderate decor. Feeding: Sinking pellets, flake, frozen bloodworm, tubifex, daphnia. Breeding: Delayed mouthbrooder; cool-season drop helps trigger spawning. Compatibility: Excellent with temperate characins, catfish, and other Gymnogeophagus.