GEOPHAGUS BALZANI (Gymnogeophagus balzanii) ATA2402

Not a good community fish. Males in particular can be very intolerant of other cichlids. Medium-sized characins and other shoaling species that inhabit the upper levels of the tank are usually unharmed though. Ensure that any tankmates chosen can withstand the cooler conditions required. Some of the Asian danionins are probably better choices than most of the commonly available characins. However, Buenos Aires tetras, Hyphessobrycon anisitsi are from a similar geographical area and should work well.

Males are very quarrelsome towards rivals and it’s best to keep only one per tank. Females, on the other hand, are far more peaceful with each other. The species is polygamous, so it’s best to provide the male with a small harem of between 2 and 6 females. This will help to avoid any particular female being singled out for harassment when the male is in spawning condition.

https://www.seriouslyfish.com/species/gymnogeophagus-balzanii/