Earth Eater Satanoperca

Earth Eater Satanoperca

Satanoperca leucosticta

Family: Cichlidae • Origin: Various

Earth Eater Satanoperca (Satanoperca leucosticta) is a peaceful cichlid reaching 10 inches. Keep in groups of 3+. Minimum tank: 75 gallons.

Min Tank
75 gal
Max Size
10"
Temperature
77-84°F
pH
6-7
Lifespan
12 years
School Size
3+
Swim Level
bottom
Hardness
5-15 dGH
peacefuladvancedomnivoreschooling

Is Earth Eater Satanoperca Right for Your Tank?

Earth Eater Satanoperca is a moderate-care fish rated "advanced" (3/5). Suitable for hobbyists with some experience who can maintain stable water parameters. They need at least 75 gallons — a mid-size tank commitment. Plan your space accordingly.

With a peaceful temperament, Earth Eater Satanoperca makes a great community fish. They coexist well with other non-aggressive species of similar size. This is a schooling species — keep at least 3 together, or they may become stressed and display abnormal behavior. Expected lifespan: 12 years with proper care.

Common Mistakes with Earth Eater Satanoperca

Keeping fewer than 3 together

Earth Eater Satanoperca is a schooling species — they need a group of at least 3 to feel secure. Lone or paired individuals become stressed, hide constantly, and may develop health issues or aggression.

Relying on a heater without a thermometer

Earth Eater Satanoperca needs 7784°F. Heaters malfunction or drift over time — always use a separate thermometer to verify. Temperature swings of even 3–4°F can trigger stress and disease, particularly ich.

Putting them in a tank under 75 gallons

Many beginners underestimate tank size needs. Earth Eater Satanoperca requires at least 75 gallons — ideally 113. Cramped tanks lead to stunted growth, aggression, and poor water quality.

Care Tips

  • Max size: 10"
  • Temp: 77-84°F
  • pH: 6-7
  • Keep 3+ together
  • peaceful temperament

Feeding: Standard omnivore diet for Cichlidae.

Compatibility Notes: Typical peaceful Cichlidae species.

Tank Setup & Water Parameters

Tank Requirements

Minimum Tank Size
75 gallons
Recommended Tank Size
113 gallons
Swimming Level
bottom
Minimum School Size
3+ fish

Water Parameters

Temperature
7784°F
pH Range
67
Hardness (dGH)
515
Water Type
freshwater

Behavior & Temperament

Temperament
peaceful
Aggression Level
1/5
Schooling
Yes
Territorial
No
Fin Nipper
No
Predatory
No
Diet Type
omnivore
Growth Rate
fast

Typical peaceful Cichlidae species.

Breeding

Breeding Type
egg layer
Breeding Difficulty
difficult
Lifespan
12 years

Ideal For

75 gallon

Compatible Tank Mates

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