Red Head Tapajos (Geophagus pyrocephalus)

The Red Head Tapajos (Geophagus pyrocephalus) is a vibrant, peaceful South American cichlid known for its stunning red-orange head coloration that develops with maturity, contrasting with iridescent blue-green bodies and fins, plus its unique "earth-eating" habit of sifting sand for food, requiring a fine substrate. Kept best in groups (5+), they form social hierarchies, and while generally docile for a cichlid, require large tanks, clean water, and careful tankmates to thrive.