Saltwater Aquarist

Pearl Cichlid

(Geophagus brasiliensis)

Pearl Cichlid (Geophagus brasiliensis) in a freshwater aquarium

Species Description…

Scientific Name: Geophagus brasiliensis
Common Name: Pearl Cichlid
Species Group: Cichlid
Tank Type:
Care Level: Intermediate
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Diet Type: Omnivore
Role in Aquarium: Showpiece Fish
Max Fish Length: 10 (inches)
Min Aquarium Size: 56 (gallons)
Native Range: Coastal Atlantic drainages of eastern and southern Brazil and Uruguay.
Min Temperature: 64°F
Max Temperature: 82°F
Min pH: 6
Max pH: 8
Min GH: 1 dGH
Max GH: 15 dGH
Min Group Size:
Breeding: Moderate
Lifespan: years

Overview

  • The Pearl Cichlid (Geophagus brasiliensis), also called the pearlscale or mother-of-pearl cichlid, is a robust eartheater with iridescent spangled scales.
  • Native to coastal rivers of eastern and southern Brazil and Uruguay.
  • Grows to about 10 in (25 cm) standard length.
  • Dominant males develop a hump on the forehead.

Feeding

  • A generalist omnivore that eats plant material, small invertebrates and fry.
  • Offer sinking pellets plus live and frozen foods. [UNVERIFIED]

Habitat

  • A tank with a base of 60 × 18 in (150 × 45 cm).
  • Soft sand is preferred so it can sift for food.
  • Water: 64–82°F (18–28°C), pH 6.0–8.0, GH 1–15.

Fish Care

  • Hardy and tolerant of a wide temperature range.

Compatibility

  • May eat very small fish.
  • Best with similar-sized, robust fish.

Aquarium Behavior

  • Males are territorial, especially when spawning.

Breeding

  • A substrate spawner. Both parents guard the eggs and fry.