Eartheater (Earth-eater) cichlids are named after the way they suck mud or sand into their extendable mouth before filtering it for
small invertebrates and detritus to eat and expelling the residue.
The attractive, iridescent Red-striped Eartheater is native to rivers, canals and lakes of Suriname and French Guiana in
the northwest of South America.
Adults reach a length of some 25-30cm (a foot). They emit sounds by grinding their teeth, thought to be to communicate with one another.
"I must give up smoking."
They are non-aggressive, non-territorial fish. Parents protect hatchling fry in their mouths.