Appearance

Red head tapajos (Geophagus pyrocephalus)

They can grow up to 15-20 cm long, and live between 8-10 years with good husbandry. They are a peaceful cichlid that prefer to be kept in a small group.

Water Conditions

• Minimum Tank Size: 280 litres.

• Water Parameters

  • Temperature: 26° c - 30° c

  • PH: soft, mildly acidic - Between 5.5-7.0

  • Hardness: 1-10 dGH

• Tank Specifics:

  • Red head tapajos require fine sand and smooth rock, driftwood, and other hiding spots to help them feel more secure.

  • They require30-40% weekly water changes.

Feeding

Red head Tapajos require a fine particles varied diet to remain healthy. High-quality pellets or flakes aimed at cichlids are recommended, with variety added by live or frozen food like bloodworms or brine shrimp.

Compatibility

They are peaceful towards their own species, but can show aggression towards smaller fish or fish they view as invading their territory. They therefore pair well with similarly sized fish who can defend themselves, but who are themselves not aggressive, like silver dollars or oscars.

Breeding and Sexing

Male tapajos are larger and more colourful and have longer fin extensions. Females may be smaller, but it is not a reliable way to tell, and viewing breeding behaviour is the best indicator.

Red head Tapajos will lay their eggs on a smooth surface and after a few days collect the fry in their mouth (mouthbrooders) they will remain there until they become free swimming which is usually around 2 weeks. They would then need feeding several times a day on baby brine shrimp or micro pellets/flakes