Tocantins Eartheater

Geophagus sp. 'Tocantins' comes from the Tocantins-Araguaia basin of central Brazil, one of South America's major river systems draining the Cerrado savannah. This undescribed species shows yellow-orange fin margins, a prominent mid-body lateral blotch, and subtle iridescent scaling. It is among the more water-quality-tolerant undescribed eartheaters, adapting to a moderate pH range which makes it suitable for aquarists who cannot maintain extremely soft water. A delayed mouthbrooder that sifts sand continuously, it needs a fine-sand base of at least 5 cm and open areas for foraging. Keep in groups of five or more. Suitable tankmates include large peaceful tetras, other eartheaters, and doradid catfish of similar size.

Water: Soft to moderately hard; pH 6.0–7.5, temperature 24–29 °C. Tank: 250 L+; fine sand substrate, open areas, driftwood optional. Feeding: Quality sinking pellets, frozen bloodworm, artemia, and daphnia. Breeding: Delayed mouthbrooder; group-spawning in captivity. Compatibility: Peaceful with large tetras, eartheaters, and calm catfish.