Geophagus proximus (Suriname Eartheater)

Geophagus proximus, the Suriname Eartheater, is a vibrant, peaceful South American cichlid known for its shimmering green, gold, and blue colors and fascinating habit of sifting sand for food, requiring soft, acidic water, fine sandy substrate, and tankmates of similar size and temperament in larger aquariums to thrive. They form social groups and develop dominance hierarchies, making group keeping essential for stability, and grow to a significant size, often exceeding 8 inches.