Think Fish - The Tropical Fish Keeping Resource

Fish Database: Jewel Cichlid - Hemichromis bimaculatus

Aquarium requirements

Aquarium suitability: 4/5
Sociability rating: 8/10
Area of tank: Bottom, middle
Aquarium water conditions: 6-8.5, vs,s,m,h,vh
Temperature: 20 - 26C
Feeding: Flake, frozen, live foods
Minimum tank size: 90cm
Min / Max number in tank:

Fish fact file

Family: Cichlidae (Cichlids)
Synonyms: Hemichromis guttatus, H. cerasogaster, H. cristatus, H. paynei, H. stellifer
Other common names: African Jewelfish, Jewelfish
Origin: Africa; Coastal and forested rivers
Natural habitat: Muddy or sandy bottomed waterways
Size: 12cm
Behavior: Territorial, peaceful, aggressive during spawning
Breeding: Eggs are laid on pre-cleaned rocks, the eggs and young are transferred to dug out pits and cared for by both parents.
Natural water conditions: pH 6.5-7.5, very soft to hard
Sexing:

Fish code No.1108

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The Jewel Cichlid seems to have 'waves' of popularity and/or availability but it is a well-recommended fish for those interested in medium sized cichlids. Although normally peaceful, individuals may be quite aggressive towards others of the same kind. During breeding a pair will become highly protective of their eggs and young so this must be taken into account when choosing tank mates. Mix with similar sized hardy fish and provide hiding spots amongst rocks, wood and hardy plants. The Jewel Cichlid is a burrower so plants must be hardy and preferably potted. Can be kept in mildly brackish water.

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