Green Chromide (Etroplus suratensis) is an intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 75 gallons and 75-82°F. A large, deep-bodied cichlid from brackish coastal waters, with pearly spots on a green-gold body. Juveniles sold in stores can reach a foot, grazing algae; it does best in hard, alkaline water with a little marine salt, and it is much bigger than the orange chromide.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Etroplus suratensis |
|---|---|
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Origin | Coastal India and Sri Lanka |
| Adult size | 8-12 in |
| Minimum tank | 75 gallons |
| Temperature | 75-82°F |
| pH | 7.5-8.5 |
| Temperament | Mostly peaceful, territorial when breeding |
| Social behavior | Small group or pair in a large tank |
| Swim level | Mid |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Omnivore: algae-based foods, pellets, frozen foods, vegetables |
| Typical lifespan | 8-10 years |
Quick tips
- Add marine salt for slightly brackish water; adults do best in it.
- Plan for a large tank; it outgrows small setups.
- Offer algae and vegetable foods.
San Diego water
Naturally suited to San Diego's hard, alkaline tap water once it is dechlorinated (the city uses chloramine, so use a conditioner that handles it). Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi