Chameleon Cichlid (Guyana)

The Chameleon Cichlid is a Guyanese population of Crenicichla strigata, a pike cichlid named both for its bold lateral stripe and its remarkable ability to rapidly shift body colouration in response to mood, threat, and breeding condition — from pale grey to deep brown to almost black within seconds. Guyanese specimens are noted for particularly vivid red-orange fin tips and a sharply contrasting dark lateral stripe.

C. strigata is a mid-sized pike cichlid that is somewhat more manageable than the very large Cichla species, while still demanding a large aquarium and a diet of appropriately sized prey. Males can be aggressive toward each other and toward other pike cichlids, but a bonded pair in a sufficiently large tank will tolerate some robust tank mates.

The dramatic colour-change ability makes this species uniquely interesting to observe. Breeding condition fish display an intensity of colouration that rivals any freshwater fish, and the female's vivid red belly during spawning is spectacular. A species tank allows full appreciation of this behaviour.

Water: Temperature 24–28°C, pH 5.5–7.0, GH 1–10, KH 1–5; soft to moderately soft water; large regular water changes essential. Tank: 350 L minimum for a pair; provide large cave spawning sites, driftwood, and fine sand substrate. Feeding: Frozen prawns, mussel, large bloodworm, earthworms, and quality large cichlid sticks; avoid reliance on feeder fish. Breeding: Cave spawner with brilliant breeding colours; female guards eggs; male defends territory; soft acidic water improves results. Compatibility: Keep only with fish too large to consume; pairs can coexist with large, robust cichlids in sufficient space.