Gymnogeophagus Rhabdotus

Another highly colored substrate-spawning gymno, G. rhabdotus has a limited distribution from the MerÍn Lake and RÍo Negro Basins in Uruguay. They can show great amounts of phenotypic variation, and individuals from the RÍo Negro Basin differ in color pattern from the common MerÍn Basin specimens. Even within the MerÍn Lake Basin, there exists much variation in coloration. A perfect example is the headwater-dwelling G. rhabdotus race called “blue neon.” These have a much more intense blue-to-violet coloration in their body and fins. Thankfully, all races shimmer in glorious blue, green, or purple when taken from the wild.

Scientific Name: Gymnogeophagus rhabdotus

Max Size: 4"

pH: 5.0-8.5

Hardness: Moderate

Temperature: 23-28c

Aggressiveness: Peaceful

Region of Origin: South America