Neambi Eartheater

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Exclusive to the Tocantins River in Brazil, found near the rapids and rocky/sandy banks of this imposing basin with clear and current-rich waters.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Tocantins Eartheater (Geophagus neambi). Often confused in its early years with G. altifrons or "surinamensis". Scientifically described only in 2010. Rounded and massive head; the body is compact to cleave the water.

Social Behavior: Quiet and sociable, aggression is almost purely limited to skirmishes between males and displays to establish hierarchy in a large school (min. 6-8 individuals).

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Wears a breathtaking reflective blue-green and gold coat; the lateral spot disappears to give way to intense wavy blue lines or bright blue dots on the flanks and operculum. Red filaments for parade.

Aquarium Setup: Essential 150-180 cm (60-70 inches) tank. The bottom pebbles of the Rio Tocantins, with a massive expanse of pure sand, a strong water jet from filters or pumps to simulate the rapids and many compact trunks will make this fish bloom.

Diet and Feeding: As the genus "Geophagus" suggests, it eats by filtering mud and sand. To feed a school, generous rations of sinking hard protein granules and krill must be introduced; flakes do not reach the bottom.

Water Quality: Loves much warmer and cleaner water than other eartheaters: thermostat not below 27-28°C (81-82°F) for ideal vitality and chromatic ignition. Nitrates must always be kept below 20ppm.

Compatibility and Tankmates: An excellent guest. Perfect with Metynnis (Silver Dollars), Severums (Heros) and other large but mild cichlids. Plants in the tank will have a short life: it doesn't eat them, it perpetually uproots them by moving kg of sand per day.

Aquarium Reproduction: "Larvophile" breeder (they mouthbrood only the larvae, after they have hatched from the eggs on rock). During this stage, the two parents become two insensitive beasts ready to headbutt anyone.

Risks and Diseases: Loss of digestive bacterial flora. Being massive and ravenous, many administer heavy diets (beef heart), triggering intractable bloat.