Red Hump Earth Eater

A peaceful South American cichlid with a unique feeding behavior, the Red Hump Eartheater sifts through substrate to find food—earning its name. Males develop a distinctive red nuchal hump and colorful iridescent markings, making them a standout in community tanks.

Key Features:

Size: Males up to 15–18 cm; Females slightly smaller

Behavior: Peaceful to semi-aggressive (especially during breeding)

Feeding Style: Substrate sifter – benefits from sandy bottoms

Diet: Omnivorous – pellets, frozen foods, and live foods

Water Parameters:

Temperature: 24–28 °C

pH: 6.0–7.5

Hardness: 5–15 dGH

Minimum Tank Size: 150 L (larger if kept in groups)

Best kept in peaceful communities or South American biotope tanks, this vibrant, sand-stirring species adds both color and natural behavior to any aquarium.