A peaceful South American cichlid with a unique feeding behavior, the Red Hump Eartheater sifts through substrate to find food—earning its name. Males develop a distinctive red nuchal hump and colorful iridescent markings, making them a standout in community tanks.

Key Features:

• Size: Males up to 15–18 cm; Females slightly smaller

• Behavior: Peaceful to semi-aggressive (especially during breeding)

• Feeding Style: Substrate sifter – benefits from sandy bottoms

• Diet: Omnivorous – pellets, frozen foods, and live foods

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 24–28 °C

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Hardness: 5–15 dGH

• Minimum Tank Size: 150 L (larger if kept in groups)

Best kept in peaceful communities or South American biotope tanks, this vibrant, sand-stirring species adds both color and natural behavior to any aquarium.