Geo. Heckelli

Overview

• Scientific Name: Geophagus heckelii
• Common Names: Threadfin Geophagus, Heckel's Eartheater, Threadfin Acara
• Family: Cichlidae
• Origin: South America, particularly in rivers and tributaries in Brazil and Guyana.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Adult Geophagus heckelii can grow up to 8 to 10 inches (20 to 25 cm), with males usually being larger than females.
• Coloration:
  • The body is silver to golden-brown with a shimmering iridescence, highlighted with dark horizontal stripes and blue-green markings.
  • They have a reddish blush along the throat and gill area, especially during breeding.
  • The most distinctive feature is the long, trailing fin extensions on their dorsal and caudal fins, giving them their "threadfin" appearance.

Behavior

• Temperament: Threadfin Geophagus are relatively peaceful cichlids, especially when compared to more aggressive species. They can become territorial during breeding, but otherwise, they get along well with other similar-sized fish.
• Activity Level: They are active swimmers and enjoy exploring the bottom of the tank, where they sift through the substrate to feed, a common behavior for Geophagus species.
• Sociability: Threadfin Geophagus prefer to be kept in small groups, as they are social within their own species. In community tanks, they are peaceful but may outcompete slower fish for food.

Habitat and Tank Requirements

• Tank Size: A minimum of 75 gallons is recommended for a single adult. Larger tanks are preferable, especially if keeping multiple individuals or a community of fish.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C)
  • pH Level: 6.0 to 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
  • Water Hardness: 5 to 12 dGH
• Substrate: A soft, sandy substrate is ideal, as they like to sift through sand in search of food. Gravel can damage their gill covers or mouths.
• Tank Setup:
  • Decorations: Rocks, driftwood, and caves provide plenty of hiding spots and territories. Avoid sharp or jagged edges that could injure their long, flowing fins.
  • Plants: Hardy plants like Java Fern and Anubias that can be attached to driftwood are suitable. They may uproot plants while foraging, so floating or anchored plants are a good choice.
  • Filtration: Good filtration is necessary to maintain clean water conditions, as Geophagus species are sensitive to poor water quality. Moderate water flow mimicking their natural river habitat is ideal.
  • Lighting: Moderate lighting helps bring out their iridescent scales.

Diet

• Feeding: Geophagus heckelii are omnivores with a preference for small invertebrates and plant matter. In the wild, they sift through the substrate for food. In captivity, their diet can include:
  • High-quality pellets or flakes designed for cichlids.
  • Live or frozen foods: Bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and other small invertebrates.
  • Vegetable matter: Blanched spinach, peas, or other green vegetables to supplement their diet.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed them 1-2 times daily, ensuring they consume all the food within a few minutes. Providing a varied diet ensures optimal health and vibrant coloration.

Breeding

• Breeding Behavior: Geophagus heckelii are biparental brooders, meaning both the male and female care for the eggs and fry. During spawning, the pair will clean a flat surface, such as a rock or cave, where the female lays eggs.
• Spawning Conditions: Increase water temperatures to around 80°F to 82°F (27°C to 28°C) to encourage breeding. A dedicated breeding tank is advisable.
• Parental Care: Both parents are protective of the eggs and fry, guarding them against potential threats. The eggs hatch in about 3 to 4 days, and the fry become free-swimming after a week.
• Fry Care: Fry can be fed infusoria or finely crushed fish food, moving on to baby brine shrimp as they grow.

Compatibility

• Tank Mates: Threadfin Geophagus are generally peaceful and do well with other non-aggressive or moderately aggressive fish. Suitable tank mates include:
  • Other Geophagus species or peaceful South American cichlids.
  • Larger tetras or peaceful catfish like Corydoras or Plecos.
  • Avoid overly aggressive cichlids or very small fish, as they may be bullied or outcompeted for food.
• Breeding Aggression: They can become more aggressive during breeding, so provide plenty of hiding spots for other tank mates during this time.

Lifespan

• Lifespan: With proper care, Geophagus heckelii can live for 8 to 10 years in captivity, though some individuals may live longer in well-maintained tanks.

Care Requirements

• Water Quality: Good water quality is essential. Regular water changes (20-30% weekly) are important, as they are sensitive to high nitrate levels. Keep an eye on water parameters, especially if kept in a community tank.
• Disease Prevention: Like other cichlids, they are susceptible to common aquarium diseases like ich or fin rot if water conditions are not ideal. A stable environment reduces stress and disease risk.

Interesting Facts

1. Sifting Behavior: Like other Geophagus species, G. heckelii is known for its "earth-eating" behavior. They sift through the sand to find food, filtering edible particles while expelling the rest through their gills.
2. Elongated Fins: Males develop longer, trailing fin extensions as they mature, giving them a very elegant and unique appearance, especially during courtship displays.
3. Relatively Peaceful Cichlid: Compared to more aggressive cichlid species, Threadfin Geophagus is relatively peaceful and can coexist with a variety of fish in a well-planned community tank.