Chocolate Cichlid

• ExerciseModerate

  An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.

• GroomingAttentive tank care

  Sensitive to water quality — stay on top of testing and maintenance.

• Living spaceMid-size tank

  Needs a mid-size aquarium with room to swim.

• Owner experienceSome experience helps

  A little know-how makes life smoother.

• Commitment10–15 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Ich (white spot) · Fin rot · Bloat (GDV)

The Chocolate Cichlid (Hypselecara temporalis) comes from the Amazon and Orinoco basins and reaches about 25 to 30 cm, making it one of the larger peaceful South American cichlids. Adults develop a deep, almost square body, a green-gold sheen over chocolate brown, and a red flush across the throat and belly when in condition. A pair needs 450 litres or more at 25-29C, pH 6.0 to 7.5 in soft to moderately hard water, with large driftwood, flat spawning stones and open space. Feed quality cichlid pellets, frozen krill, mysis and earthworm-based foods, plus some vegetable content. Its temperament is surprisingly mild for its size: it is slow-moving, tolerant of tankmates it cannot swallow, and generally content to hold one corner. It suits a large South American community with severums, geophagus and similar fish. Be realistic about volume, though, because this is a genuinely big cichlid and the peaceful nature evaporates if it is crowded.

• How active is a Chocolate Cichlid?

  Moderate. An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.

• How much maintenance does a Chocolate Cichlid need?

  Attentive tank care. Sensitive to water quality — stay on top of testing and maintenance.

• What tank size does a Chocolate Cichlid need?

  Mid-size tank. Needs a mid-size aquarium with room to swim.

• Is a Chocolate Cichlid a good fit for first-time owners?

  Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.

• How long do Chocolate Cichlid live?

  10–15 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Chocolate Cichlid?

  Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Fin rot, Bloat (GDV). These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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