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Chameleon Cichlid

Cichlasoma dimerus

Also known as: Chameleon Cichlid, Dimerus Cichlid

Origin: South America

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Water Parameters

Temperature2026 °C
15 °C35 °C
pH78
49
GH (Hardness)518 °dGH
0 °dGH30 °dGH
KH (Alkalinity)210 °dKH
0 °dKH20 °dKH

Quick Stats

Max Size
20 cm
Min Tank
200 L
Lifespan
8-10
Swimming Level
middle
Schooling
No
Diet
omnivore
Temperament
semi-aggressive, territorial as a pair

About

Cichlasoma dimerus is a robust and adaptable cichlid from the rivers of Argentina, Paraguay, and southern Brazil. Its common name comes from its ability to rapidly shift between pale and dark colour phases. A biparental substrate spawner, it is surprisingly easy to breed and tolerates a range of water conditions.

Care Guide

Water: 20-26°C, pH 7.0-8.0, moderately hard water preferred. Tank: Minimum 200L, sandy substrate, rocks and driftwood for territory marking. Feeding: Quality cichlid pellets, frozen bloodworm, earthworms, blanched vegetables. Behaviour: Semi-aggressive; bonded pairs can be territorial toward other cichlids. Compatibility: Best with similarly sized subtropical South American fish.

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