Common Name: Jurupari Eartheater Cichlid
Scientific Name: Satanoperca jurupari
Other Names: Demon Fish, Jurupari Cichlid
Description:
The Jurupari Eartheater Cichlid is a beautifully patterned fish, characterized by its greenish-brown body with faint vertical banding. The fins might display touches of red, especially towards the edges. The eyes can be bright red or orange, lending to its “demon fish” nickname. Their unique mouth structure allows them to sift through the substrate, looking for food.
Habitat and Distribution:
Satanoperca jurupari are native to the Amazon Basin, found across a wide range of freshwater habitats from Colombia to Brazil, including both black and clearwater environments.
Size and Lifespan:
In captivity, Jurupari Cichlids can grow up to 10-12 inches. With proper care, they have a lifespan of around 10 years.
Diet and Behavior:
Their common name, “Eartheater”, comes from their behavior of picking up mouthfuls of substrate and sifting it to feed on small organisms. In the aquarium, they should be fed a mix of high-quality cichlid pellets, supplemented with live and frozen foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia. They may also accept some vegetable matter.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Satanoperca jurupari is a substrate spawner, usually laying their eggs on a flat rock or in a dug-out pit. They are known to be attentive parents, guarding their eggs and fry diligently.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
These cichlids thrive in tanks that mimic their natural habitat, which means a soft, sandy substrate is ideal for their sifting behavior. They appreciate well-planted tanks, driftwood, and rocks to establish territories. A tank of at least 55 gallons is recommended, but larger is better for mature fish or groups.
Ideal Tank Mates:
Jurupari Cichlids are relatively peaceful and can be kept with other South American cichlids of similar size and temperament. They also do well with larger tetras, catfish, and other non-aggressive species.
Difficulty Level:
Intermediate. Their specific requirements, such as the sandy substrate for sifting, make them more suitable for hobbyists with some experience.
Water Parameters:
• Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
• pH: 5.5 - 7.5
• General Hardness (GH): 5-12 dGH
• Carbonate Hardness (KH): 2-6 dKH
• Ammonia: 0 ppm
• Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <20 ppm
Additional Information:
• Jurupari Cichlids are named after a native legend where the fish are believed to house the souls of the dead.
• When establishing a tank for them, avoid sharp decorations or substrates as they frequently dig and can injure themselves.
• Though peaceful, they do establish territories, especially during breeding, so it’s essential to provide ample hiding places.
