Chocolate Cichlid Care Guide: Tank Size, Diet & Tankmates
The Chocolate Cichlid (Hypselecara temporalis) is a gentle giant of the South American cichlid world. Named for its warm chocolate-brown coloration washed with deep red and golden tones, this large, deep-bodied cichlid develops stunning color and a striking forehead profile as it matures. Surprisingly peaceful for its size, intelligent, and personable, the Chocolate Cichlid makes a captivating centerpiece for a large, well-decorated aquarium and a rewarding project for the dedicated hobbyist. We stock Chocolate Cichlids here at Tropical Treasures alongside our wider range of South American cichlids. Stock rotates, so if you do not see them listed just message us and we will let you know what is swimming.
Meet the Chocolate Cichlid
Chocolate Cichlids are native to the warm, soft, slow-moving waters of the Amazon basin in South America. They are a large cichlid, reaching roughly 10–12 inches in a spacious aquarium, and can live 10 years or more with good care. Juveniles are fairly plain, then mature into the rich chocolate-and-red coloration and pronounced nuchal hump that make adults so impressive. They share the calm, commanding presence of the Uaru while standing out with their own warm, reddish tones.
Tank Size and Setup
Chocolate Cichlids need room to grow. Plan for a minimum of 75 gallons for a single adult, and considerably larger for a pair or group. They appreciate a layout with open swimming space, smooth driftwood, rounded rockwork, and a soft substrate. Choose sturdy decor and hardy live plants they are less likely to disturb, and pair the tank with strong, reliable filtration.
Water Parameters and Temperature
Chocolate Cichlids thrive in warm, soft, clean water. Aim for a temperature of 78–84°F and a pH in the soft, slightly acidic to neutral range of about 6.0–7.0. As with most large cichlids, stability and water quality matter most, so keep up with regular water changes and reliable filtration. Always acclimate new arrivals slowly.
Feeding Your Chocolate Cichlid
Chocolate Cichlids are omnivores with a healthy appetite, so variety is key. Offer a quality cichlid pellet as a staple and supplement generously with frozen and live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and the occasional treat, along with some vegetable matter to round out their diet. A varied diet helps bring out their best color. Browse our full range of freshwater fish food to keep yours in top condition.
Tankmates and Temperament
For a large cichlid, the Chocolate Cichlid is remarkably peaceful, though it does best with calm, similarly sized tankmates that will not nip its long fins or outcompete it for food. Good companions include other peaceful large South American cichlids, larger tetras, and robust catfish. Avoid small fish that could be seen as food, and watch closely when introducing new tankmates, especially during breeding.
Is the Chocolate Cichlid Right for You?
The Chocolate Cichlid is a fantastic choice for intermediate keepers who can provide a large tank, warm soft water, a varied diet, and calm, suitably sized companions. If you are weighing other big South American cichlids, our Uaru care guide and severum care guide are great next reads.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big do Chocolate Cichlids get? Chocolate Cichlids typically reach about 10–12 inches in a large aquarium, so a tank of 75 gallons or more with strong filtration is important.
Are Chocolate Cichlids aggressive? They are one of the more peaceful large South American cichlids. They do best with calm, similarly sized tankmates and can become territorial when breeding.
Are Chocolate Cichlids good for beginners? They are best suited to keepers with some experience, mainly because of their size and their need for warm, soft, pristine water and a large tank.