Smooth-cheek Eartheater
NameSmooth-cheek Eartheater
Scientific NameSatanoperca jurupari
Common NamesSmooth-cheek Eartheater, Jurupari Eartheater
FamilyCichlidae
OriginSouth America, Amazon Basin, Orinoco Basin
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)75
Max Size (Inches)10
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)75-82
pH Range6.0-7.5
Compatible SpeciesOther Geophagus species, Severum Cichlids, Uaru Cichlids, Large schooling tetras, Corydoras Catfish, Plecos, Dwarf Cichlids (e.g., Apistogramma, Mikrogeophagus)
Description
The Smooth-cheek Eartheater is a beautiful South American cichlid known for its distinctive sifting behavior, where it takes mouthfuls of substrate to filter out detritus and small invertebrates. It displays iridescent scales, often with blue or green highlights, and requires a spacious aquarium with fine sand and stable water conditions.
