Fin's Fish Guide
The Maroni eartheater (Geophagus harreri) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Freshwater of northeastern South America, including the Maroni in the Guianas.
Description
The Maroni eartheater is a cichlid from fresh waters of northeastern South America, named after the Maroni river. The species grows to about 18 cm and has a deep body with a downward-pointing mouth and iridescent spots on the flanks. It often occurs downstream of rapids, in sunny, shallow channels with moderate to strong current. As an 'eartheater' it takes mouthfuls of sand, sifts food particles from it and expels the sand again. Geophagus species are typically mouthbrooders that protect the eggs and young in the mouth. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Maroni eartheater?
The Maroni eartheater has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Takes sand into the mouth and sieves food from it ('eartheater'); mouthbrooder.
Where does the Maroni eartheater live?
The Maroni eartheater lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Freshwater of northeastern South America, including the Maroni in the Guianas.
How big does the Maroni eartheater get?
The Maroni eartheater grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Maroni eartheater dangerous to humans?
No, the Maroni eartheater is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Maroni eartheater edible?
Yes, the Maroni eartheater is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Geophagus
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Maroni eartheater?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Maroni eartheater is one of 12,519 species in the app.