Species profile
Geophagus Altifrons
Geophagus altifrons
Semi aggressive
Moderate care
650 L minimum aquarium
20–30 cm adult size
Bottom–mid
Minimum group: 5
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
A large social eartheater. Group size and a 180 × 60 cm minimum footprint are more meaningful than a small nominal tank-volume figure.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
26–30 °C
pH
4.8–7
GH
1–10 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
4
Generally peaceful for a large cichlid but social hierarchy and breeding territories need space. Keep with robust non-aggressive fish that are too large to be swallowed.
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
8–12 years
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
650 L
Minimum footprint
180 × 60 cm
Accepted scientific name
Geophagus altifrons
Alternative names
High-bodied Eartheater, Geophagus Altifrons
Native range
Amazon basin in South America.
Natural habitat
Large soft-water rivers and floodplain habitats over sand. Captive groups need a broad uninterrupted sand bed, excellent filtration and plenty of floor area.
Diet & feeding
Benthic omnivore that continuously sifts sand. Feed small sinking foods, insect/crustacean items and plant matter in multiple modest meals rather than large chunks.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
External sexing is difficult. Mature males may be larger with more extended fins; confirmed pair behaviour is more reliable than colour alone.
Breeding
Mouthbrooding eartheater with biparental care; spawning behaviour can vary with locality/population. Breeding adults defend a local area but are usually less violent than Central American cichlids.