Geophagus sp. Tapajos Orange Head 6 cm

Native Habitat and Species Information
The Tapajos Red head, is a beautiful and relatively peaceful species that is considered a rare gem in the hobby; they will add intense, red coloration and touch of class to any aquarium. Tapajos can only be found in the Rio Tapajos within the Amazon River basin of South America. Like other Geophagus species, the Tapajos will continuously sift through sand in search of food. In addition to their bright, orange-red heads, they have a base color of tan to gray, with slight, vertical banding (8-10 bars) and gold to green, iridescent scales on their flanks. Tapajos have iridescent gold to green patterns on their operculum as well as a variety of gold-green to orange-red markings on their translucent fins. They also have a black ocellus spot on and below their upper lateral line.

Aquarium Care
Tapajos require an aquarium of at least 55 gallons and should be provided with a fine, sand substrate and multiple places where they can find shelter (driftwood, rock structures, or dense vegetation). Tapajos will sift and burrow through substrate and have been known to snack on some live plant species, so live plants that attach to driftwood and rocks, or potted plants are recommended. Tapajos prefer warm, soft, acidic, and clean water as well as areas of low or subdued lighting where they can sift around for snacks. Tapajos prefer to live in groups and are relatively peaceful Cichlids that have been successful in a community environment, but are more commonly kept in species or biotope-specific aquariums (or housed with other Cichlids). Tank mates should be considered carefully and should be comparable in size.

Feeding & Nutrition