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Gymnogeophagus labiatus
Gymnogeophagus labiatus
📍 Uruguay River basin, South America
About Gymnogeophagus labiatus
Gymnogeophagus labiatus is a stunning eartheater cichlid distinguished by its dramatically thickened lips — an adaptation for sifting food particles from sandy substrate. Males develop rich coloration with blue-green iridescence, a nuchal hump, and elongated fin rays as they mature. A relatively cold-tolerant species from subtropical South America.
Care Notes
A fine sand substrate is essential — eartheaters continuously sift through sand in their natural foraging behavior. A deep, fine sand bed (2"+ depth) allows this behavior and keeps the fish comfortable. Cool-tolerant: can be kept at room temperature in warmer climates without a heater. Feed a mix of sinking pellets, frozen bloodworms, and high-quality cichlid flakes. Social and best kept in groups of 4–6+ with a single dominant male. Peaceful toward non-cichlid species.