Red Head Tapajo Cichlid

About the Red Head Tapajos Cichlid

The Red Head Tapajos Cichlid is one of the most stunning South American eartheaters, prized for its brilliant red-orange head, iridescent blue-green body, and graceful finnage. Native to the Rio Tapajós in Brazil, this peaceful cichlid is admired for both its spectacular colours and fascinating natural behaviour.

As an eartheater, the Red Head Tapajos constantly sifts mouthfuls of fine sand through its gills in search of small insects, worms, crustaceans, and other edible particles. This natural feeding behaviour makes a soft sand substrate essential for their long-term health and wellbeing.

Despite their impressive size, Red Head Tapajos Cichlids are remarkably peaceful and make excellent additions to larger South American community aquariums. They coexist well with Angelfish, Severums, larger Tetras, peaceful Geophagus species, Corydoras, and compatible Plecos. A spacious aquarium with driftwood, smooth rocks, and open sandy areas allows them to display their natural behaviour while showcasing their incredible colouration.

A varied diet of premium cichlid pellets, sinking granules, frozen bloodworms, mysis shrimp, krill, and high-quality live foods will help maximise their vibrant colours and overall health.

Quick Care Guide

Scientific Name

Geophagus sp. "Red Head Tapajos"

Common Name

Red Head Tapajos Cichlid

Origin

Rio Tapajós, Brazil

Adult Size

18–20 cm

Temperament

Peaceful

Diet

Omnivore

Minimum Tank Size

300 Litres

Temperature

24–30°C

pH

6.0–7.5

Water Hardness

2–12 dGH

Difficulty

Beginner to Intermediate

Lifespan

8–10 Years

Suitable For

Large South American community aquariums

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Red Head Tapajos Cichlids aggressive?

No. They are one of the most peaceful medium to large cichlids and are ideal for South American community aquariums.

Why are they called Eartheaters?

They constantly sift sand through their mouths to filter out insects, crustaceans, and other food, giving rise to the name "Eartheater."

What do Red Head Tapajos Cichlids eat?

They thrive on quality cichlid pellets, sinking granules, frozen bloodworms, mysis shrimp, krill, blackworms, and other nutritious foods.

Can Red Head Tapajos Cichlids live with Angelfish?

Yes. They are excellent companions for Angelfish, Severums, peaceful Geophagus, larger Tetras, and other non-aggressive South American fish.

Do they need sand?

Yes. A fine sand substrate is essential, allowing them to perform their natural sand-sifting behaviour without damaging their mouths or gills.

Common Mistakes

Using gravel instead of sand

Gravel prevents their natural feeding behaviour and may damage their delicate mouths.

Keeping them in small aquariums

These active cichlids require plenty of swimming space as they mature.

Housing with aggressive cichlids

Avoid highly aggressive Central American or African cichlids that may bully these peaceful fish.

Feeding an unbalanced diet

A varied diet helps maintain their vibrant colours and excellent condition.

Poor water quality

Regular water changes, excellent filtration, and stable water conditions are essential for long-term health.