Sveni Eartheater Rio Parana Locale (Geophagus sveni ‘Rio Parana’)

A spectacularly colored eartheater found only in a few river systems in Southern Brazil, the Sveni Eartheater is considered part of the ‘Surinamensis’ complex of closely-related species which are found throughout most of South America. With intense blue, red, and green coloration and long, flowing ventral fin streamers, the variant of Geophagus sveni from Brazil’s Rio Parana is one of, if not the most beautiful and sought after of all eartheaters in the hobby. This species was once an extremely rare import as a wild fish but are now bred on a fairly large scale to supply the hobby worldwide. A relatively peaceful cichlid, the Sveni Eartheater is best kept in groups 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.