Species profile
Red Hump Eartheater
Geophagus steindachneri
Semi aggressive
Moderate care
300 L minimum aquarium
15–20 cm adult size
Bottom–mid
Minimum group: 5
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Social structure matters: one dominant male with several females is generally safer than multiple mature males in limited floor space.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
24–28 °C
pH
6–7.5
GH
2–15 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low–moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 5
Tank zone
Bottom–mid
Territory level
Moderate
Predation risk
Small fish
Bioload factor
3
Males can be strongly territorial toward other males, while females are generally less combative. Keep a group only with sufficient floor area and visual barriers.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
Yes
Jump risk
Low
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
6–10 years
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
300 L
Minimum footprint
150 × 50 cm
Accepted scientific name
Geophagus steindachneri
Alternative names
Red Hump Eartheater, Redhump Geophagus
Native range
North-western South America, including Magdalena/Cauca and adjacent drainages.
Natural habitat
Sand-bottomed river habitats. A long aquarium with deep fine sand, open foraging space and wood/rock sight breaks is essential; avoid coarse gravel that interferes with normal sifting.
Diet & feeding
Benthic omnivore. Feed small sinking cichlid foods, crustaceans, insect larvae and some plant matter, ideally in several smaller meals that can be sifted from sand.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Males grow larger, develop a conspicuous red/orange nuchal hump and more extended fins; females remain smaller and plainer.
Breeding
Maternal mouthbrooder. Males court multiple females; the female collects fertilised eggs and carries the developing brood. A female-biased group reduces pressure from dominant males.