Caqueta Gold Eartheater (Geophagus sp.)

(Geophagus sp. “Caqueta Gold”)

The Caqueta Gold Eartheater, an undescribed species within the Geophagus genus, is a rare and stunning cichlid native to the Caquetá River Basin in Colombia. This species is renowned for its iridescent golden sheen, peaceful temperament, and fascinating sand-sifting behavior. It’s an ideal centerpiece for South American biotope aquariums.

Tank Requirements

• Tank Size:
  • Minimum of 75 gallons for a pair or small group. Larger tanks (125 gallons or more) are recommended for groups or community setups.
• Tank Setup:
  • Substrate: A soft, sandy substrate is essential to accommodate their natural sifting behavior. Coarse substrates can harm their delicate gills and mouths.
  • Decor: Include driftwood, smooth rocks, and caves to create hiding spots. The addition of natural decorations mimics their riverine habitat.
  • Plants: While they are not plant-eaters, their substrate activity may disturb rooted plants. Use hardy species like Anubias, Java fern, or floating plants.
  • Open Spaces: Leave open swimming areas for their active lifestyle.
• Lighting:
  • Moderate to subdued lighting enhances their coloration and mimics their natural environment.
• Water Flow:
  • Moderate water flow is ideal to replicate their river habitat. Use a filter that provides steady but not overpowering circulation.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 76–82°F (24–28°C)
• pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
• Hardness: 2–12 dGH (soft to moderately hard water)
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm; nitrates should be kept below 20 ppm.
• Water Changes: Perform weekly water changes of 25–30% to maintain pristine water conditions.

Diet

The Caqueta Gold Eartheater is an omnivore that thrives on a varied diet:

• Staple Foods:
  • High-quality sinking pellets or wafers formulated for cichlids.
• Live/Frozen Foods:
  • Bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and blackworms provide essential protein.
• Vegetables and Algae-Based Foods:
  • Supplement with blanched spinach, peas, or spirulina-based foods.
• Feeding Schedule:
  • Feed 2–3 times daily in small amounts to prevent overfeeding and maintain water quality.

Behavior and Compatibility

• Temperament:
  • Generally peaceful and suitable for community tanks. They display mild territorial behavior, especially during breeding.
• Social Structure:
  • Best kept in groups of 4–6 to observe natural social interactions.
• Tankmates:
  • Compatible with other peaceful or semi-aggressive cichlids, such as Severums, Angelfish, or other Geophagus species.
  • Non-cichlid tankmates like tetras, Corydoras catfish, plecos, and other bottom dwellers make excellent companions.
  • Avoid highly aggressive or boisterous fish.

Breeding

Breeding Geophagus sp. “Caqueta Gold” in captivity is challenging but rewarding:

1. Breeding Tank:
   • Use a tank with slightly acidic water (pH 6.0–6.5) and warmer temperatures (80–82°F). Flat stones or sandy areas are ideal for spawning.
2. Spawning Behavior:
   • They are delayed mouthbrooders. The pair will lay eggs on a flat surface, which are then fertilized and guarded. After a few days, the eggs are picked up by one or both parents for mouthbrooding.
3. Incubation and Fry Care:
   • The eggs hatch in 3–5 days, and the fry are released about 2 weeks later.
   • Feed fry with infusoria or freshly hatched brine shrimp. Gradually introduce crushed flakes or micro-pellets as they grow.

Common Challenges

1. Water Quality Sensitivity:
   • This species is highly sensitive to poor water conditions. Regular maintenance is crucial.
2. Substrate Needs:
   • Without sand, their natural feeding behavior is restricted, leading to stress.
3. Territorial Behavior During Breeding:
   • Breeding pairs may become aggressive toward tankmates, so provide ample space and hiding spots.

Interesting Facts

• The Caqueta Gold Eartheater is named after the Caquetá River in Colombia, where it is predominantly found.
• Its sand-sifting behavior aerates the substrate, making it beneficial in maintaining a healthy aquarium ecosystem.
• Males are more vibrant in coloration and develop a pronounced nuchal hump, especially during breeding.

Care Summary

Aspect	Details
Tank Size	75 gallons for a pair, 125+ gallons for groups
Water Parameters	pH 6.0–7.5, 76–82°F, soft to moderately hard water
Diet	Omnivorous: sinking pellets, live/frozen foods, vegetables
Temperament	Peaceful, mildly territorial during breeding
Lifespan	8–10 years

The Caqueta Gold Eartheater is a stunning and relatively peaceful addition to a South American aquarium. With proper care, this species will display its vibrant golden hues and engaging natural behaviors, making it a captivating centerpiece in any setup.