Large Geos?

[señor_pescados_felices]

I have never got around to owning a Geophagus,sadly ,though I do have a 250 I would like to stock with Dats,Loaches,and possibly Geos.

I had tried searching for info on Geos around here but the info is slim pickings and mostly repetitive.

I understand that Geos like to be in shoals?Will different species shoal together?
I have heard of some that may push 12" when full grown but I was hoping more for species that easily attain 12"+ (preferably +)........

Any advise on tips to get me started on the right path to successful Geo keeping is much appreciated.

 

[titansfever83]

First off, geos will get along with others more than their own kind. If you want more than one then get several so the aggression will be spread out. If you plan on putting them in that large of a tank then you will be better off.

As far as size, go with Brazsiliensis. Although they are one of the most aggressive eartheaters and will reach a size of 8 to 12 inches depending on the size of aquarium. Yours is more than enough. Second choice would be Altimira or Altifrons. Both will reach around 8 to 10 inches and are a little more forgiving toward each other when there is plenty of space. Also depends on what river they come from, some get larger than others ex. 'Rio Negro' is one of my favs and will be about the largest of all Altifrons.

Jeff Rapps has a great pic of a male Brasiliensis on his site, here is the link: www.tangledupincichlids.com Jeff has several other pics of Geos, Gymnos, and Satans on his site. I would stick with Geos for size and they generally have the best color when adults. If you want color and a little more peaceful fish then I would suggest 'Redhead Tapajos' or Orangeheads same fish. Originally Orangehead but the color is more red. They only get about 5 maybe 6 inches and grow very slow but are well worth it. Good luck on finding any. Well, I hope this helps.

Jamie

 

[titansfever83]

Here is another link with some really great adult pics. Scroll down about half way and you will see where the geo pics start.

http://www.amazon-exotic-import.de/Gallerie/Cichliden/INDEX.HTM


Check out the Rio Negros and Tapajos, both are extremely showy when adults.

 

[señor_pescados_felices]

hehe thanks thats pretty much the info I was looking for.So no Geos get much over 12"?

I looked and looked for geo info (particularly the largest species) around here but just found thread after thread of:

"look at my geo!"
"let's see those geos!"
"Geo ID"
"Geo for sale"
"will geos work with ___"

and not many threads with just plain useful information on them,like largest species,max sizes,etc...

So do you figure Geos and Dats would work out long term,given the max size of each?

 

[titansfever83]

I've never had any Dats, so I'm not sure on their aggression.

They should be fine in your tank. Plenty of room. There will be a little aggression from the geos but not enough to hurt nothing. They will also make a mess of your substrate so don't plan on any live plants unless they are attached to driftwood or rocks.