Geophagus pyrocephalus

The forehead becomes orange-red in both mature sexes, and juveniles already show narrow vertical bars.

The forehead becomes orange-red in both mature sexes, and juveniles already show narrow vertical bars. This is the fish formerly called Tapajós Red Head.

Adult length

Up to 16 cm

Water temperature

23–28 °C

Natural habitat

Native to the lower Tapajós in Brazil, over fine sand with scattered roots, branches and boulders, also entering flooded forest during the rainy season.

A red head is not exclusive to males; males have more developed fins.