Pearl-Striped Geophagus (Gymnogeophagus rhabdotus) — 4-5cm

Overview

The Pearl-Striped Geophagus, scientifically known as Gymnogeophagus rhabdotus, is a striking, cool-water South American cichlid from Uruguay that brings pearl-like striping, engaging behaviour, and rewarding breeding to temperate aquariums. Available for freshwater fish UK, this species reaches up to 4.5cm in length and thrives in tanks of at least 90 litres with cooler temperatures than typical tropical fish. Native to Uruguay and adjacent southern Brazil, the Pearl-Striped Geophagus is an excellent choice for aquarists seeking rare freshwater fish UK.

Appearance

The Pearl-Striped Geophagus displays subtle, natural coloration with pearl-like striping along the flanks. The body is typically grey to olive with iridescent highlights. Males may develop more intense colours than females, especially during breeding.

Natural Habitat

Native to South America, especially Uruguay and adjacent southern Brazil river systems, this species inhabits streams with sandy substrates. The water is typically cooler than typical tropical aquariums.

Aquarium Setup

A minimum tank size of 90 litres is suitable. Use soft sand substrate, and provide open bottom space for sifting and foraging. Filtration must be excellent. Maintain cool to temperate water (20-26°C).

Feeding

Omnivores. Offer a varied diet of high-quality sinking cichlid pellets, frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and occasional vegetable matter or spirulina-based foods.

Behaviour

Forms pairs. The female typically incubates eggs and fry in her mouth. Prefers cooler water and is not ideal for typical tropical-only setups.

Tank Mates

Suitable: peaceful fish of similar size that tolerate similar water conditions, robust midwater fish too large to be eaten, small bottom-dwellers only if the tank is spacious and the cichlid is not breeding. Avoid very small fish, highly aggressive cichlids, fin-nipping species, overly timid fish, and other bottom-dwelling territorial fish in small tanks.

Breeding

A substrate spawner and mouthbrooder. Pairs form and the female typically incubates eggs and fry in her mouth. Provide cooler, clean water, fine sand, and plenty of cover. Males may become territorial during breeding.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

Tropical Fish Co offers healthy Pearl-Striped Geophagus with expert guidance on South American cichlid care. With secure packaging and reliable tropical fish UK delivery, we make it easy to buy cichlids for sale UK with confidence.