Chameleon Cichlid (Australoheros facetus)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Easy care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameAustraloheros facetus

FamilyCichlidae

Also known asChanchito, Cichlasoma facetum

Care levelEasy

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentAggressive

DietOmnivore

Adult size7 in

Minimum tank size55 gallons

Water parametersTemp 64-79°F, pH 6.0-7.8, GH 5-20 dGH

Appearance

Stocky cichlid able to shift between pale and dark barred patterns, often olive to dusky with vertical bars and a lateral blotch.

Difficulty and care for the Chameleon Cichlid

Easy

Origin and habitat

Southern Brazil, Uruguay and Argentina

Keeper notes

Quite aggressive and territorial, especially when breeding; one of the hardier cool-water New World cichlids.

Log Chameleon Cichlid in your reef tank

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