Caqueta Gold Eartheater (Geophagus sp. ‘Caqueta’)

This colorful eartheater from the ‘surinamensis’ group of the genus Geophagus originates from the fast-flowing waters of the Rio Caqueta in Southern Colombia. A relative newcomer to the hobby, this still-undescribed species has quickly become popular due to its distinctive iridescent gold coloration and the showy ventral streamers adult fish display. In the aquarium, they are peaceful for a cichlid, and prefer to live in groups. A relatively peaceful cichlid, the Caqueta Gold Eartheater is best kept in an aquarium with fine sand substrate so they can exhibit their natural sand sifting behavior. A varied diet rich in quality proteins and high in red color enhancers like astaxanthin will ensure they develop their most vibrant coloration in the aquarium.