Chocolate Cichlid (Hypselecara temporalis) for Sale

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.

Chocolate Cichlids are part of the same fascinating group as our other South American cichlids, and they share the calm, commanding presence of fish like the Uaru while showing off their own rich, reddish coloration.

🐠 Key Features

• Warm chocolate-brown body with deep red and golden tones
• Large, deep-bodied profile with a striking mature forehead
• Surprisingly peaceful for a large cichlid
• Intelligent and interactive—learns to recognize its keeper
• Excellent centerpiece fish for large aquariums
• Popular among South American cichlid enthusiasts

🐠 Ideal Tank Setup

• Large aquarium (75 gallons or more, bigger for groups)
• Strong, reliable filtration and pristine water
• Open swimming space with driftwood and smooth rockwork
• Soft, slightly acidic, warm water
• Sturdy decor and hardy plants they are less likely to uproot

🔧 Care Tips

• Provide plenty of swimming room and stable, warm water
• Maintain excellent water quality with regular water changes
• Offer a varied diet for the best color and growth
• Keep in a group or with calm, similarly sized tankmates
• Best suited for intermediate keepers and large-tank hobbyists

🍽 Recommended Food

• High-quality cichlid pellets
• Frozen and live foods such as bloodworms and brine shrimp
• Some vegetable matter to round out their diet
• Browse our full range of freshwater fish food

🐠 What You'll Receive

• One healthy Chocolate cichlid
• Carefully packed for safe shipping
• Heat/cold packs as needed
• Live arrival guarantee

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