Description

Orange Chromide (Etroplus maculatus)

📌 Basic Info

Scientific Name: Etroplus maculatus
Common Names: Orange Chromide, Red Chromide, Indian Orange Cichlid
Family: Cichlidae
Order: Cichliformes
Origin: Southwestern India and Sri Lanka — mainly in brackish lagoons, estuaries, and coastal backwaters
Size: 7 – 8 cm (3 inches)
Lifespan: 5 – 8 years
Tank Zone: Middle

🌊 Water Parameters

Temperature: 24 – 30°C (75 – 86°F)
pH: 7.0 – 8.5
Hardness: 8 – 20 dGH
Salinity: Freshwater to low brackish (1.002 – 1.010 SG)

🐟 Characteristics

Body: Oval and laterally compressed with a smooth, streamlined shape.
Coloration: Bright orange to golden-yellow body, often with faint vertical bars or subtle speckling.
Fins: Transparent with orange or reddish tint; mature males may show deeper coloration.
Behavior: Peaceful and social, especially when kept in small groups.
Special Feature: Native to India, this is one of the few cichlid species naturally found in brackish waters. It is also known for its strong parental care — both parents guard their eggs and fry diligently.

🍽️ Diet

Type: Omnivorous
Diet: Flake food, pellets, bloodworms, brine shrimp, and finely chopped vegetables (like spinach or peas).
Feeding Frequency: 2–3 times daily in small portions.
Tip: Include spirulina-based food to enhance color vibrancy.

🛠️ Tank Setup & Maintenance

Tank Size: Minimum 80 liters (20 gallons) for a small group.
Filtration: Moderate filtration with gentle water flow.
Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel.
Decor: Driftwood, smooth stones, and live plants such as Anubias or Java Fern.
Lighting: Moderate lighting to accentuate the orange hue.
Water Change: 25–30% weekly with stable salinity (if brackish).

👥 Social Behavior

Group Size: Keep in groups of 4–6 or as pairs.
Tank Mates: Ideal with Mollies, Monos, Scats, and other peaceful brackish fish.
Avoid: Aggressive or large cichlids.
Compatibility: Generally peaceful; may become territorial during breeding.

✅ Do’s
• Maintain slightly brackish water for optimal color and health.
• Provide plenty of hiding spots.
• Keep in groups to reduce stress.

❌ Don’ts
• Don’t keep in cold or very soft water.
• Avoid keeping with aggressive fish.
• Don’t overfeed — can cause water quality issues.

⭐ Quick Tip
The Orange Chromide is a vibrant Indian cichlid known for its bright orange coloration, gentle temperament, and adaptability to both freshwater and brackish environments. Perfect for medium-sized community aquariums, it adds color, activity, and a touch of native Indian charm.