Red Head Tapajos Geophagus

Geophagus sp. 'Tapajos'

Minimum Tank Size

75+ gal

Temperature

78–84°F

PH

5.5–7.5

Adult Size

6–8 in

Temperament 

Generally peaceful social cichlid

Care Difficulty

Intermediate–Advanced

Diet & Feeding

Provide a varied species-appropriate diet using a quality staple plus supplemental foods that match natural feeding behavior. Avoid overfeeding.

Care Instructions

Keep conditions stable around 78–84°F with suitable chemistry. Account for adult size, behavior, bioload, and escape risk where relevant.

Flow & Filtration

Use mature biological filtration and appropriate oxygenation/flow. Keep ammonia and nitrite at zero and manage nitrate through routine water changes.

Planted Tank Suitability

Plant compatibility varies with digging, grazing, size, and water chemistry. Use hardy or protected plants when necessary.

Tank Mate Compatibility

Good Tank Mates
  • Larger Tetras
  • Severum
  • Corydoras with caution

Use Caution 
  • Other Geophagus

Avoid
  • Tiny Fish
  • Aggressive Central American Cichlids

Compatibility Notes

Needs a fine sand substrate for natural sifting behavior and substantial floor space.

Breeding Notes

Breeding strategy varies by species; provide appropriate spawning sites and separate fry or young when necessary.