Paraguay Eartheater (Gymnogeophagus balzanii) is an intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 55 gallons and 64-77°F. A sand-sifting South American cichlid that tolerates cool water and sieves substrate for food, with males showing blue and gold highlights. Use fine sand and a roomy tank.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Gymnogeophagus balzanii |
|---|---|
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Origin | Paraguay and Paraná river basins, South America |
| Adult size | 6-8 in |
| Minimum tank | 55 gallons |
| Temperature | 64-77°F |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 |
| Temperament | Peaceful to semi-aggressive when breeding |
| Social behavior | Small groups in large tanks |
| Swim level | Bottom to mid |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Omnivore: sinking pellets, frozen foods, spirulina |
| Typical lifespan | 8-10 years |
Quick tips
- Use fine sand so it can sift.
- Avoid very warm water.
- Give pairs room; breeding males can bully.
San Diego water
Captive-bred stock usually adapts to San Diego tap water with slow acclimation. For best color and health, many keepers blend tap with RO/DI water. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi