Orange chromide

The orange chromide is a species of cichlid endemic to freshwater and brackish streams, lagoons and estuaries of southern India and Sri Lanka. It is popular with fishkeeping hobbyists, and reaches a length of up to.

Names

The specific epithet of this species, maculatus, is Latin for "spotted", and is a reference to the large black spot on the upper flanks. In Malayalam, it is known as pallathi.

Diet

This species co-occurs throughout its range with the green chromide and preys on the eggs and larvae of the latter. Additionally, it removes parasites from the larger green chromide; this is an example of cleaning symbiosis. This species also feeds on zooplankton and algae.

Parental care

Young orange chromides feed on the mucous coating of their parents; this is essential for their survival. During the feeding period, the parent fishes' mucous gland secretions increase by 34%.