[Ebook] 500 freshwater aquarium fish – Cichlids – Three-spot Geophagus (Satanoperca daemon)

This is a challenging species to rear from young, and even more challenging to breed. As in other members of the genus, the sexes are difficult to tell apart. The male is slightly slimmer and the genital papilla (a tiny projection from the genital aperture during breeding) is pointed, whereas in the female it is rounded.

Other common name:

• Three-spot Demonfish

Synonym

• Geophagus daemon

Distribution

• Rio Negro
  (Brazil), Orinoco (Venezuela), and extending into Colombia.

Size

• Around 10in (25cm) or even slightly larger.

Behavior

• Generally tolerant of other fish despite its size. Constantly digs, so plants need protection.

Diet

• Wide range of foods accepted.

Aquarium

• Large, with adequate shelter and fine substratum. Protect plants (by making base of stems inaccessible) and use only robust types. Water chemistry not critical, but well-filtered, soft to medium-hard, slightly acid to neutral water recommended. Temperature range: 72-79°F (22-26°C).

Breeding

• Very rare in aquaria; believed to be a substrate spawner.