Geophagus

Question
Hi. I was thinking about getting some geophagus surinamensis. They're for sale online for $4 a piece and are listed as 2 inches. I read that they are slow growing. How long do you think it would take these 2-inchers to get their mature coloration?

Answer
Zachary,  I haven't thought of these guy's in awhile. They are a very interesting fish. It takes them a year to a year and a half to reach their sexual maturity and all its adult colors but, it is so worth the wait. To real quick pieces of advice as I am sure you know these guys are Eartheaters and will eat anything at the bottom of your tank and shoot out their gills what they don't want so no gravel it will damage their gills. I would keep them on sand with a couple large smooth stones and make it natural. Throw in some branches that you have either got at the shop or you have baked in the oven for 2 hours at 400 degrees to make sure it is parasite free. A piece of driftwood or two shop bought. You can get sterile mulch in large leaf try to add some of this here and there. The second thing is they are either found at the beginning of the rapids or where it empties so put an undergravel filter in there with powerheads for a few reasons.....1. They like the current but keep them tubes high in the tank. 2. Water quality is the upmost importance with them since they live on the bottom and this is a great way to enhance your biological filtration and keep your aggregate cleaner. 3. It will help oxygenate your tank more. I am going to send you a great info sheet. Good Luck, Tina


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