Orange Chromide (Pseudetroplus maculatus)
The Orange Chromide is a beautiful and fascinating dwarf cichlid known for its vibrant golden-orange coloration, compact body, and peaceful personality. This attractive species often displays warm orange to yellow tones accented by a distinctive dark spot along the side of its body. Its manageable adult size, active swimming behavior, and interesting social interactions make it an excellent choice for aquarists seeking an unusual cichlid.
Native to southern India and Sri Lanka, the Orange Chromide naturally inhabits coastal freshwater and brackish environments, including estuaries, lagoons, and slow-moving waterways. Unlike many freshwater cichlids, this species is especially well adapted to mildly brackish conditions. Although Orange Chromides may be maintained in suitable freshwater environments, stable water chemistry is essential, and long-term care is often most successful in slightly brackish aquariums.
In the aquarium, Orange Chromides appreciate a well-structured environment with driftwood, rocks, caves, and open swimming areas. Sandy or fine-gravel substrates are suitable, while hardy plants that tolerate the aquarium's chosen salinity can provide additional shelter. Good filtration, consistent water quality, and gentle to moderate water movement help maintain a healthy environment.
Orange Chromides are omnivorous and readily accept a variety of aquarium foods. A high-quality small cichlid pellet or tropical flake should form the foundation of their diet. Supplementing with frozen or live brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, and suitable vegetable-based foods helps provide balanced nutrition and maintain vibrant coloration.
This species is generally peaceful compared with many other cichlids and can be maintained in small groups when sufficient space is provided. Territorial behavior may increase during breeding, particularly when pairs establish spawning sites. Compatible tank mates should be selected based on temperament, size, and water chemistry requirements.
Orange Chromides are also known for their interesting breeding behavior. They typically form pairs and deposit eggs on rocks, wood, or other solid surfaces. Both parents may participate in guarding the eggs and protecting the developing fry.
Scientific Name: Pseudetroplus maculatus (formerly Etroplus maculatus)
Common Name: Orange Chromide, Orange Chromide Cichlid
Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful to Semi-Aggressive During Breeding
Diet: Omnivore
Adult Size: Approximately 3–4 Inches
Minimum Tank Size: 30 Gallons
Recommended Group Size: Small Groups or Compatible Pairs
Temperature: 75–82°F
Recommended pH: 7.0–8.5
Water Type: Freshwater to Brackish; Mildly Brackish Conditions Often Preferred
Recommended Setup: Aquarium with Rockwork, Driftwood, Hiding Places, and Open Swimming Space
Origin: Southern India and Sri Lanka
If you're looking for a colorful and unusual dwarf cichlid with a relatively peaceful temperament, the Orange Chromide is an outstanding choice. Its brilliant orange coloration, fascinating social behavior, and distinctive appearance make it a beautiful addition to a carefully maintained freshwater or brackish aquarium.
