The Chanchito, commonly known as the Chameleon Cichlid, is a robust and highly adaptable cichlid native to South America. Known for rapid color changes reflecting their mood and environment, they are famously cold-tolerant and can survive without aquarium heaters in many indoor climates. They are active diggers that will uproot most live plants and become fiercely territorial during breeding.
Chanchito At a Glance
Chanchito Tank Requirements
Will Chanchito fit in your tank?
Care guides tell you what Chanchito needs, the next question is whether your tank can safely provide it. Test Chanchito against your tank size, maintenance needs, and the fish you already keep before you buy.
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Chanchito Water Parameters
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Chanchito Temperament & Compatibility
Chanchito Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Male (Standard)
The standard adult male. Males grow significantly larger than females and develop extended dorsal and anal fins. They act as the primary defenders of the territory.
Differs in 1 trait from base species
Also known as: Bull Male, Adult Male
Female
Adult females are smaller with a rounder belly and shorter, more rounded fins. They participate actively in brood care alongside the male but are slightly less aggressive overall.
Differs in 4 traits from base species
Also known as: Girl, Adult Female
Juvenile (Grow-out)
Young Chameleon Cichlids are small and relatively peaceful but grow rapidly. They require tank upgrades as they mature and their territorial instincts develop.
Differs in 6 traits from base species
Also known as: Baby, Juvenile, Unsexed
Chanchito Care Guide Summary
The Chanchito, scientifically known as Australoheros facetus, belongs to the Cichlids - South American family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 22 cm and have a compressed body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as semi-aggressive, this species primarily occupies the mid-level and bottom zones of the aquarium and produces a high level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Chanchito requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 150 litres and a tank length of at least 90 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 16°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 6–8 and a general hardness of 4–15 dGH. A low water flow is preferred.
The Chanchito is a rewarding species to keep, provided its core environmental needs are met. This species is available in 3 varieties: Male (Standard), Female, and Juvenile (Grow-out). Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.
Chanchito Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Chanchito, a low water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the mid-level and bottom zones, the aquarium layout should prioritise open swimming space in the centre of the tank for free movement and sufficient floor space with hiding spots among rocks, wood, or dense planting. Useful additions include a sand substrate to accommodate their sifting behaviour and driftwood, which can serve as both a hiding place and a dietary supplement. Keepers should note that expect substrate disturbance, so lightweight décor should be secured and live planted layouts may be difficult to maintain, as this species tends to uproot or consume vegetation.
Chanchito Compatibility Notes
Classified as semi-aggressive, the Chanchito is adaptable and can be kept singly or in a small group, offering flexibility when planning a community tank. When choosing tankmates, conspecific aggression can be intense, especially in smaller tanks and territorial behaviour may cause issues if hiding spots or floor space are limited. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the mid-level and bottom zones can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Chanchito Recommended Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes that meet the minimum volume and length requirements for Chanchito.
40 Gallon Breeder
55 Gallon Standard
60 Gallon Breeder
75 Gallon Standard
90 Gallon Standard
125 Gallon Standard
Show 9 more tank sizes
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Frequently Asked Questions About Chanchito
How big does Chanchito get?
Chanchito (Australoheros facetus) typically reaches a maximum adult size of approximately 22 cm. They have a compressed body shape and a moderate growth rate.
What tank size does Chanchito need?
A minimum aquarium volume of 150 litres and a tank length of at least 90 cm are recommended for Chanchito. This ensures enough swimming space and helps maintain stable water conditions.
What water parameters does Chanchito need?
Chanchito thrives in freshwater only conditions with a temperature range of 16–28°C, a pH between 6 and 8, and a general hardness of 4–15 dGH. A low water flow is preferred.
Is Chanchito peaceful or aggressive?
Chanchito is classified as semi-aggressive with an aggression score of 6 out of 10. They can work in community setups but may clash with certain tankmates.
Can Chanchito live alone?
Yes, Chanchito can be kept singly or in a group. They are flexible and adapt well to both setups.
Does Chanchito have any special tank requirements?
Yes. Chanchito benefits from sand (sifters) and driftwood (digestion/hiding) in the aquarium. These features help replicate their natural habitat and promote overall health and well-being.
Plants That Suit Chanchito
These plants pair well with Chanchito based on shared water preferences, layout fit, and how likely they are to hold up in the same aquarium.
Asian Watergrass
Hygroryza aristata
Asian Watermoss
Salvinia cucullata
Floating Fern
Salvinia natans
Giant Salvinia
Salvinia molesta
Meebold's Lagenandra
Lagenandra meeboldii
Sweet Potato
Ipomoea batatas
Fish Similar to Chanchito
Chocolate Cichlid
Hypselecara temporalis
A large, deep-bodied South American cichlid famous for its 'gentle giant' temperament. They undergo significant color changes as they mature, eventually displaying rich chocolate browns, greens, and vibrant reds. Though peaceful for their size, they are still cichlids and will consume any fish small enough to fit in their mouths.
Texas Cichlid
Herichthys cyanoguttatus
The Texas Cichlid is the only cichlid species native to the United States. Known for their striking pearlescent blue/green spots and extreme territorial behavior, they require large tanks and robust filtration. They are notorious for rearranging aquariums, digging massive pits, and destroying live plants.
Apistogramma baenschi (Inca 50)
Apistogramma baenschi
A striking South American dwarf cichlid native to Peru. Males boast a dramatically high, sail-like dorsal fin and vibrant blue/yellow coloration. They are cave spawners that require soft, acidic water and a sand substrate for their natural earth-sifting behaviors.
Bumblebee Cichlid
Pseudotropheus crabro
A robust and highly aggressive Mbuna from Lake Malawi. They are famous for their rapid color changes; while females and juveniles boast striking yellow and black 'bumblebee' bars, dominant males turn almost completely pitch black. In the wild, they are opportunistic feeders that clean parasites from large catfish and steal their eggs.
Butterfly Peacock Cichlid
Aulonocara jacobfreibergi
One of the most colorful and slightly more aggressive Peacock cichlids from Lake Malawi. They are obligate sand-sifters that search for benthic invertebrates. They require hard, alkaline water and plenty of rocky caves. Like most Aulonocara, they exhibit extreme sexual dimorphism.
Hongsloi Apistogramma
Apistogramma hongsloi
A striking dwarf cichlid native to the Orinoco River basin in South America. They are popular for their vivid red, yellow, and blue colors. Best kept in blackwater setups with soft, acidic water and plenty of leaf litter. They form harems and require sand substrate, as they sift sand through their gills to find food.