Chanchito Cichlid
Image: <a rel="nofollow" class="external text" href="https://www.flickr.com/people/32674493@N04">Cláudio Dias Timm</a> (CC BY-SA 2.0)
NameChanchito Cichlid
Scientific NameAustraloheros facetus
Common NamesChanchito, Chameleon Cichlid, Faceted Cichlid
FamilyCichlidae
OriginSouth America, Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)55
Max Size (Inches)8
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)68-78
pH Range6.5-7.5
Compatible SpeciesOther robust South American cichlids (e.g., some Geophagus species), Larger, fast-moving tetras (e.g., Buenos Aires Tetras), Larger armored catfish (e.g., Plecos, Synodontis catfish), Other hardy, similarly sized bottom dwellers
Description
The Chanchito Cichlid is a hardy and adaptable South American cichlid known for its variable coloration, often displaying iridescent blue-green bars over a yellowish body. While generally robust, its semi-aggressive nature, especially during breeding, requires careful tankmate selection and adequate space. They are opportunistic omnivores, feeding on a variety of foods in their natural habitat.
