Source: Wikimedia Commons
Pearl Cichlid
IntermediateGeophagus brasiliensis
A South American cichlid whose greenish-brown flanks carry rows of pale blue spangles like scattered pearls. Native to the coastal rivers of southeastern Brazil, it is hardy and, unlike most of its genus, does not require soft water.
Difficulty
Intermediate
Temperature
18〜28℃
Lifespan
8-12 years
Size
25-28cm
Diet
Sinking dried foods, frozen bloodworm, Artemia
About
Geophagus brasiliensis occurs in the coastal drainages of eastern and southern Brazil and in Uruguay. Rows of pale blue spangles across greenish-brown flanks suggested scattered pearls and gave the fish its English name; mature males develop a pronounced nuchal hump. FishBase records a maximum of 28cm TL, while Seriously Fish gives 25cm SL. Seriously Fish recommends a 150 x 45cm tank (about 304 litres) at 18-28C, pH 6.0-8.0 and 1-15 dGH, and unlike most of the genus it does not require soft water, which makes it easier to keep. It is a generalised omnivore that takes sinking dried foods readily. Males are territorial and become especially so when spawning, and very small fish may be predated, so choose tank mates of a suitable size. It is a biparental substrate spawner, with both parents guarding eggs and fry.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Lifespan of the Pearl Cichlid
The Pearl Cichlid lives 8-12 years.
Size of the Pearl Cichlid
The Pearl Cichlid grows to 25-28cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Pearl Cichlid
The ideal temperature for the Pearl Cichlid is 18〜28℃.
Basic Info
Origin
South America: coastal drainages of eastern and southern Brazil, and Uruguay
Lifespan
8-12 years
Care Specifications
- pH
- 6–8
- Hardness (GH)
- 1–15 dGH
- Water Temp.
- 18–28℃
- Min. Tank
- 304 L
Semi-aggressive
Sources: Seriously Fish / FishBase
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Geophagus brasiliensis Quoy & Gaimard, 1824
Authority databases: FishBase
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not CITES-listedIUCN LC · Least Concern
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / FishBase (IUCN assessment: LC)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Pearl Cichlid Listings
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