The Threespot Eartheater (Satanoperca daemon), also known as the Spotted Demonfish, is a large, highly sought-after Neotropical cichlid native to the acidic blackwater basins of the Rio Negro and Orinoco River in South America.
Key Characteristics
Appearance: Famous for its iridescent scales and distinctive markings: two to three dark blotches on its flank and a prominent "eye spot" (ocellus) at the base of the tail.
Feeding Behaviour: True to its name, it sifts through sandy substrates to find small invertebrates, plant matter, and detritus.
Temperament: Generally peaceful and gregarious, it thrives in groups of 5–8 or more to establish a natural hierarchy. It is typically safe with other peaceful tankmates but may become territorial during breeding.
Size: Can reach a maximum length of approximately 25–30 cm (10–12 inches).
Aquarium Care Requirements
Maintaining this species is considered a challenge, recommended primarily for experienced aquarists due to their sensitivity to water quality.
Parameter Recommended Range
Tank Size Minimum 340–400 Litres (90+ Gallons)
Substrate Essential: Fine soft sand for sifting
Temperature 24–30°C (75–86°F)
pH Level Extremely acidic to neutral (3.5–7.0)
Water Hardness Very soft (up to 8–10° dH)
Breeding & Diet
Diet: Omnivorous micropredator. In captivity, they should be fed small, high-quality sinking pellets, flakes, and frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
Breeding: They are substrate spawners (unlike some other Satanoperca species that are mouthbrooders). The pair typically excavates a pit in the sand, lays up to 200 eggs, and covers them with leaves or substrate for protection.
SKU: RBM
