Sparkling Eartheater
Satanoperca acuticeps
A sociable eartheater with three bold flank blotches, rarely seen in the trade.
About
Found over sandy substrates in calm, slow-moving stretches of the Amazon basin, the sparkling eartheater (Satanoperca acuticeps) inhabits the Branco, lower Negro, and Solimões-Amazon river systems in Brazil. It belongs to a small group within the genus that sets it apart from close relatives: where similar-looking species like S. daemon carry one or two dark body blotches, this fish uniquely sports three, along with a prominent ocellus at the upper base of the caudal fin. That combination makes identification straightforward once you know what to look for. Despite the genus name invoking darker imagery, this cichlid is surprisingly calm outside of spawning, posing little threat to tankmates of any reasonable size. It is a gregarious animal with a strong tendency to form loose groups, and juveniles especially like to stick together. A group of five to eight individuals is the recommended starting point, since smaller numbers often lead to weaker fish being harassed or the whole group becoming unsettled and skittish. As with many cichlids, dominant hierarchies form naturally within the group. Breeding in captivity is possible but uncommon. Pairs excavate spawning pits in the sand and guard the eggs and fry together. This is an intermediate-level species that rewards patient keepers with a well-planted, soft-water setup and good filtration.
Similar species
Other fish you might consider
Good tank mates
Species that tend to coexist peacefully with Sparkling Eartheater
From the same region
Share the same natural habitat. Great for a biotope-themed tank
Frequently asked questions
- How big does the Sparkling Eartheater get?
- The Sparkling Eartheater reaches about 4–6.5" as an adult.
- What size tank does the Sparkling Eartheater need?
- A minimum of 86 gallons is recommended for the Sparkling Eartheater.
- What water parameters does the Sparkling Eartheater need?
- The Sparkling Eartheater does best with a temperature of 72–82°F, a pH of 5.5–7.5, hardness around 2–16 dGH.
- Is the Sparkling Eartheater aggressive?
- The Sparkling Eartheater is aggressive and is best kept alone or with robust tankmates that can hold their own.
- What does the Sparkling Eartheater eat?
- The Sparkling Eartheater is a carnivore. It needs a meaty, protein-rich diet of frozen or live foods.
- How long does the Sparkling Eartheater live?
- With good care, the Sparkling Eartheater typically lives 5-8 years.