Demon Eartheater (Satanoperca jurupari)

The Demon Eartheater is a master of subtlety. Native to the Amazon Basin, it features a streamlined, elongated body with a shimmering, pearl-like iridescence. Unlike the more colorful Geophagus, the Jurupari relies on a sophisticated palette of silver, green, and gold highlights, often with a small dark spot on the tail. They are famous for their peaceful nature and their rhythmic, constant sifting of the substrate, which serves as a vital part of their social and feeding behavior.

Key Information

• Common Name: Demon Eartheater, Jurupari

• Scientific Name: Satanoperca jurupari

• Origin: South America (Amazon River Basin)

• Max Size: 20–25 cm

• Lifespan: 10–15 years

• Temperament: Very Peaceful (Often timid)

• Diet: Omnivore/Benthivore – Sinking pellets, frozen bloodworms, and mysis shrimp.

• Care Level: Moderate to Difficult (Sensitive to water quality)

Water Parameters

Parameter	Value
Temperature:	26–30°C
pH:	5.5–7.0 (Strictly soft and acidic)
Hardness:	1–8 dGH
Minimum Tank Size:	350L+

Behaviour & Tank Compatibility

The Jurupari is a social species that should be kept in groups of 5–6 to reduce shyness. They are exceptionally peaceful and should never be housed with aggressive cichlids. Ideal tank mates include Discus, Angelfish, Uaru, and large schools of peaceful Tetras. Because they are slow, deliberate feeders, ensure they aren't outcompeted for food by faster species.

Ideal Tank Setup

• Fine, Soft Sand: Non-negotiable. Their gills are particularly sensitive; any gravel or coarse substrate can lead to physical damage or "Hole-in-the-Head" disease.

• Pristine Water Quality: They have a very low tolerance for nitrates. Large, regular water changes and high-quality biological filtration are essential.

• Driftwood and Leaf Litter: Using bogwood and dried Catappa leaves creates the "blackwater" feel they prefer and provides necessary tannins.

• Low-Light Areas: Use floating plants to create shadows, which will help these naturally timid fish feel secure enough to swim in the open.

• Dim Lighting: Bright lights can stress them; they look most beautiful under "warm" or dappled lighting.