Geo Tapajos

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Geophagus sp. "Tapajos" (often referred to as Geophagus sp. "Red Head Tapajos")
• Common Name: Geo Tapajos, Red Head Tapajos
• Adult Size: 6–8 inches (15–20 cm)
• Life Expectancy: 8–10 years
• Habitat: Native to the Rio Tapajós in the Amazon Basin, Brazil; found in slow-moving, sandy-bottomed tributaries with warm, soft water

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 55 gallons for a small group; 75+ gallons recommended for adult groups
• Ideal Temperature: 76–82°F (24–28°C)
• pH Range: 6.0–7.5
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (3–12 dGH)
• Temperament: Peaceful to mildly territorial; ideal for community tanks with similarly tempered South American species; prefers to be kept in groups (5+ to reduce aggression)

Diet & Nutrition

• Omnivorous: Yes

  • Feed sinking cichlid pellets, quality flakes, frozen/live foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp)
  • Accepts vegetable matter (blanched spinach, zucchini, spirulina)
  • Natural behavior includes sifting sand for edible particles, so fine substrate is recommended

Appearance

• Elegant body shape with a pointed head and long trailing fins
• Vibrant red-orange coloration on the head, fading into silvery or gold body tones
• Faint horizontal striping and iridescent spangling throughout the body and fins
• Males are typically larger and more colorful, especially during breeding

Distinctive Features

• Eartheater behavior: constantly sifts substrate through gills to find food
• Long, graceful dorsal and anal fins with red and blue highlights
• Non-aggressive cichlid that adds beauty and activity to South American biotopes