General:”Geophagus” brasiliensis is
probably the most commonly available
and most underrated of the
Geophagines for the home aquarium.
“Geophagus” brasiliensis is probably
representative of a number of
closely related species and some
further taxonomic work is required.
When young the species is dull in
colour which probably results in
it’s lack of popularity, however as
the fish ages it develops many
blue-green irradescent spots all
over its flanks.
G. brasiliensis is a hardy species which adapts easily to most water conditions although the fish should be keep in pHs from 6.0-7.5. The species is best raised as a small group of preferably unrelated young individuals and allowed to pair-bond. The remaining fish should be removed once a bond has formed as the species is monogamous.
Up to 600 eggs can be
laid and some culling may be
required to ensure fry survival.
Raising the fry is easy on microworms and powdered flake foods.
Photo courtesy:
Jessica L. Dion.
Origin: Brazil
Maximum Size: m: 28cm f: 23cm
Sexual Dimorphism: Unclear. Males
grow slightly larger, have a more
prominent nuchal hump and slighly
more pointed anal and dorsal fin
tips.
Mating System: Monogamous
Breeding Method: Open Spawner.
“Geophagus” brasilensis, is a geophagine cichlid. Phylogenetic analyses of Farias et al., (2000) suggests an uncertain position for this species. In one tree it lies on a branch sister to other Geophagus species, while in an analysis using combined molecular data, it seems more closely related to the Biotodoma, Gymnogeophagus linneage.
References:
Farias IP, Orti, G, Myer A. (2000)
Total Evidence: Molecules,
Morphology, and the Phylogenetics of
Cichlid Fishes. Journal of
experimental zoology (Mol Dev Evol)
288: 76–92
