Argentine Humphead Eartheater
Argentine Humphead Eartheater
Argentine Humphead Eartheater (Gymnogeophagus balzanii) is an impressive eartheater cichlid from the rivers of Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay — and one of the hardiest eartheaters available. Adult males develop a prominent nuchal hump and vivid iridescent blue-green scaling. The eartheater name comes from the behavior of sifting substrate through the gills to find invertebrates.
Feeding & Care Tip: Hikari Cichlid Bio-Gold makes an excellent primary staple — Hikari Micro Pellets as backup. Supplement 2–3× per week with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms or Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Brine Shrimp. Feed 2–3 times daily in amounts consumed within a few minutes.
Native to La Plata drainage, Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay.
Keep as a pair or with compatible tankmates. Flat or cave surface spawner with biparental care.
A rewarding cichlid for aquarists interested in South or Central American species diversity.
Care & Ideal Parameters
| Difficulty | Easy — Moderate |
| Temperament | Peaceful — community with medium/large fish |
| Typical Adult Size | 8.0 inches (20 cm) |
| Min. Group Size | Pair or small group |
| Ideal Temp | 75–82°F (24–28°C) |
| Ideal pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Ideal GH | 3–15 dGH |
| Ideal KH | 1–8 dKH |
| Staple Food | Hikari Cichlid Bio-Gold; Hikari Micro Pellets |
| Treat / Supplement | Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms; Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Brine Shrimp |
| Origin | La Plata drainage, Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay |
| Notes | Nuchal hump in adult males. La Plata drainage — cooler water than most SA cichlids. Sandy substrate for eartheating behavior. One of the most cold-tolerant eartheaters. |
