Albino Heckeli Eartheater

Albino Heckelii Eartheater – a rare, peaceful cichlid with elegant pale coloring and long flowing fins. Perfect for large aquariums and South American setups.

The Albino Heckelii Eartheater (Geophagus sp. 'Albino Heckelii') is an exquisite freshwater cichlid prized for its unique albino coloration, striking orange highlights, and graceful finnage. This rare variety of the classic Heckelii Eartheater adds sophistication and rarity to any large aquarium.

Growing up to 20–25 cm (8–10 inches) as an adult, this species is ideal for advanced aquarists with spacious, well-structured tanks. Known as an “Eartheater”, this fish exhibits fascinating feeding behavior, sifting through the substrate for food.

✅ Key Features

• Size: Juvenile size varies (commonly 5–8 cm), adults reach 20–25 cm

• Temperament: Peaceful, social, and best kept in groups

• Care Level: Moderate to Advanced

• Lifespan: 8–10 years with proper care

• Special Trait: Albino coloration with elongated fins and orange accents

Care Guide for Albino Heckelii Eartheater

✅ Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 300 liters (80 gallons) for a group of 4–6

• Aquascape: Provide fine sand substrate for natural sifting, along with driftwood, smooth rocks, and hardy plants

• Lighting: Moderate; bright light enhances albino and orange tones

• Cover: Ensure plenty of open swimming space with some shaded areas

Tip: Use a soft, sandy substrate, as sharp gravel can damage their delicate mouths during feeding.

✅ Water Parameters

• Temperature: 24°C – 28°C (75°F – 82°F)

• pH Level: 6.0 – 7.2

• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (2–10 dGH)

• Filtration: Excellent filtration with moderate water movement

• Water Changes: 30–40% weekly to maintain pristine water quality

✅ Feeding Habits

Albino Heckelii Eartheaters are omnivorous substrate sifters.

• Recommended Diet:

  • High-quality sinking cichlid pellets

  • Frozen or live foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp, krill)

  • Occasional vegetable matter (spirulina flakes, blanched spinach)

Feed small amounts 2–3 times daily to replicate natural feeding behavior.

✅ Tank Mates

This species is peaceful and best kept in groups of 4–6 to reduce stress.

Ideal Tank Mates:

• Other Geophagus species

• Large peaceful cichlids (Severum, Uaru)

• Silver Dollars

• Large Tetras

• Plecos and other non-aggressive bottom dwellers

Avoid aggressive or very small fish, which may be harassed or eaten.

✅ Behavior & Breeding

• Behavior: Peaceful and social; loves sifting sand for food

• Breeding: Pair bonding occurs naturally in groups; mouthbrooders in some cases

• Tip: Provide flat stones for spawning if breeding is intended

Why Choose Albino Heckelii Eartheater?

• Rare and exotic albino coloration with flowing fins

• Peaceful and community-friendly, ideal for large aquariums

• Unique “earth-eating” behavior adds interest and activity

• Perfect centerpiece fish for South American biotope tanks

✅ Ideal for advanced hobbyists and display tanks
✅ A rare gem for collectors seeking elegance and beauty