Our Guide To Keeping Chocolate Cichlid Fish

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Hypselecara temporalis
   • Common name: Chocolate Cichlid
   • Family: Cichlidae
   • Origin: South America, Amazon River Basin
   • Adult length: 20-25 cm (8-10 inches)
   • Lifespan: 8-10 years

2. Tank Setup:

   • Chocolate Cichlids require a tank with a minimum size of 75 gallons.
   • Provide plenty of hiding spots using rocks, driftwood, and caves.
   • They prefer subdued lighting and sandy substrate.

3. Water Parameters:

   • Maintain water temperature between 24-28°C (75-82°F).
   • pH range: 6.5-7.5
   • Soft to moderately hard water is suitable.

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • Efficient filtration is necessary due to their messy eating habits.
   • Provide moderate water flow.

5. Diet:

   • Offer a varied diet including high-quality cichlid pellets, flakes, and live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and small insects.
   • Vegetables like blanched spinach and zucchini can also be included in their diet.

6. Tank mates:

   • Compatible with other peaceful South American cichlids of similar size.
   • Avoid aggressive or overly territorial tank mates.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • Chocolate Cichlids are generally peaceful but can become territorial during breeding.
   • They may rearrange substrate and decor in the tank.