Whitespot eartheater

Satanoperca leucosticta

A long sloping snout and pale spots over the cheek and gill cover.

Head spotting helps tell it from the often-confused S. jurupari.

Adult length: Up to 15 cm (standard length, without the tail fin)
Water temperature: 20–28 °C
pH: 5.5–7.5
Hardness: 2–12 dGH

Natural habitat: Occurs in rivers and streams.

Mature stable water, soft sand and group space matter. Sifting is not waste removal.

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Appearance and identification

Pale head and gill-cover spots, short vermiculations and a small upper tail-base ocellus, without large round flank blotches. S. jurupari lacks the prominent pale head spotting.

Social behaviour and territory

Loose groups still form hierarchies; watch subordinate feeding and provide retreats.

Compatibility limits

Avoid dominant bottom competitors.

Space requirements

Allow at least a 180 × 60 cm base; groups of 5–8 suit it.

Aquarium environment

Preserve continuous fine-sand feeding space and escape routes around secured plants and décor.

Diet and feeding

Offer fine complete foods and varied small aquatic fare with plant ingredients; ensure food reaches the fish.

Sources