Species profile
Geophagus Red Head Tapajos
Geophagus pyrocephalus
Semi aggressive
Moderate care
450 L minimum aquarium
15–18 cm adult size
Bottom–mid
Minimum group: 6
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Red Head Tapajós eartheater; social sand-sifter that needs a group, a broad footprint and genuinely soft substrate.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
25–29 °C
pH
5–7
GH
Up to 12 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: 6
Tank zone
Bottom–mid
Territory level
Moderate
Predation risk
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
2.8
Social outside spawning. Constantly takes mouthfuls of sand and filters edible material through the gills; coarse or sharp substrate is inappropriate.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
No / caution
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
Yes
Jump risk
Low
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
450 L
Minimum footprint
150 × 60 cm
Accepted scientific name
Geophagus pyrocephalus
Alternative names
Geophagus sp. "Tapajos", Red Head Tapajos, Red Head Tapajós Eartheater
Native range
Lower Rio Tapajós basin, Pará, Brazil.
Natural habitat
Sand-bottomed river margins and associated habitats with leaf litter, roots, wood and variable patches of rock.
Diet & feeding
Benthic sifter feeding on small invertebrates, detrital/plant material and other edible particles; use sinking foods distributed across sand.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Mature males are typically larger and more intensely coloured, with stronger fin extensions.
Breeding
Biparental eartheater with substrate spawning followed by parental mouthbrooding/larval care typical of the taxon.