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Description
Satanoperca leucosticta, commonly known as the Whitespot Eartheater, is a freshwater fish belonging to the cichlid family. Its name derives from the Ancient Greek words for "Satan" and "perch," with "leucosticta" meaning "white spotted." This species is native to the Guiana Shield, found in eastern Venezuela, Guyana, northwestern Suriname, and northern Brazil, particularly in river systems such as the Essequibo and Demerara.
Satanoperca leucosticta thrives in a variety of aquatic environments, including main river channels, smaller tributaries, and floodplain lakes, often over substrates of sand or mud with leaf litter and submerged branches. They reach a maximum standard length of about 5 to 6 inches and require an aquarium with a base measuring at least 71 x 24 inches to accommodate their needs. A powerful filter with a flow rate of 4-5 times the aquarium volume is recommended to maintain optimal water quality, as these cichlids are sensitive to changes in their environment.
In terms of habitat setup, a soft, sandy substrate is essential for their natural feeding behavior, as they sift through the substrate for food. Coarser materials can lead to feeding difficulties and health issues. Dim lighting, driftwood, and scattered roots create a comfortable environment, but excessive leaf litter should be avoided to prevent water quality deterioration. Regular larger water changes each week are crucial to keep the conditions stable, with a preferred temperature range of 68-82°F, pH of 5.5-7.5, and hardness of 36-215 ppm.
Satanoperca leucosticta is a benthophagous feeder, primarily consuming small invertebrates and organic detritus. Their diet should consist of high-quality prepared foods, live or frozen options like bloodworms and mosquito larvae, and plant-based ingredients for balanced nutrition. To mimic natural foraging, it’s best to offer multiple smaller meals throughout the day.
In terms of behavior, this species is generally peaceful, making it compatible with other calm fish that enjoy similar water conditions. They thrive in groups, with a minimum of 5-8 individuals recommended to establish a social hierarchy. When it comes to reproduction, S. leucosticta is a maternal mouthbrooder, requiring careful maintenance and a good diet to encourage spawning. Courtship behavior involves males establishing territories around driftwood or submerged objects and courting gravid females before spawning.
Overall, with proper care, S. leucosticta can make a fascinating and rewarding addition to a well-maintained aquarium.