The Chocolate Cichlid, also known as the Emerald Cichlid, originates from the Amazon basin of South America and is now commonly bred in captivity. These fish exhibit a striking coloration, primarily brown with hints of red, orange, gold, green, and yellow. However, their coloration can vary significantly between individuals, influenced by factors like age, diet, and courtship behavior. They typically feature a prominent black spot on the upper middle back and a less pronounced spot on the base of the tail.
To thrive, Chocolate Cichlids require a spacious aquarium of at least 70 gallons with a fine gravel substrate. Providing ample hiding spots with rocks, driftwood, and terra cotta flowerpots is essential for their well-being. Despite their large size, Chocolate Cichlids are generally peaceful and non-territorial, except during spawning when they may become more aggressive towards conspecifics. They can coexist harmoniously with other peaceful cichlid species like Severums, Uarus, and Jurpari.
Distinguishing between male and female Chocolate Cichlids becomes easier as they mature. Males develop a frontal hump and larger heads compared to females. They are substrate spawners, depositing their eggs in dug-out holes, and both parents diligently guard the eggs and newly hatched fry.
As omnivores, Chocolate Cichlids have a varied diet and readily accept prepared and frozen foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, bloodworms, flakes, and cichlid pellets.
 
Common Name: Chocolate Cichlid, Emerald Cichlid
Origin: South America; Amazon basin, Brazil
Diet: Omnivore
pH Range: 6 – 7
Temperature: Tropical 24–28°C
Breed Type: Egg layer
Current Size: Approximately 5cm (Grows to approximately 20cm)
Sex: Un-sexed