Geophagus sveni

The Geophagus sveni is a beautiful South American cichlid admired for its subtle metallic sheen, graceful swimming, and sandy sifting behavior. Often called an “earth-eater,” this species sifts through substrate, helping keep your aquarium clean while displaying captivating behavior.

Why Keep Geophagus sveni?

• Elegant Appearance: Soft metallic colors with hints of red and blue make them visually appealing in planted tanks.

• Peaceful & Social: Best kept in small groups; they are community-friendly and non-aggressive.

• Natural Substrate Cleaners: Their sifting behavior aerates sand and helps reduce debris buildup.

• Hardy & Adaptable: Tolerant of a range of water conditions (pH 6.5–7.5, 24–28°C), making them suitable for intermediate aquarists.

• Active & Engaging: Watch them interact, dig, and explore, adding life and movement to your aquarium.

Care Tips

Provide a sand-based substrate, hiding spots, and open swimming areas. Feed a varied diet of high-quality pellets, flakes, and occasional frozen or live foods. Maintain stable water parameters to enhance health and coloration.

Geophagus sveni is perfect for aquarists who love peaceful, interactive fish that bring both elegance and natural behavior to their freshwater tanks.