Jack Dempsey
Rocio octofasciata · Cichlidae
Also known as Electric blue Jack Dempsey
Intermediate
A heavy-bodied, sparkling cichlid with a fighting reputation to match its name.
In short: A Jack Dempsey needs at least 300 L (79 US gal), water at 22–28 °C (72–82 °F) and pH 6.5–8. It is aggressive, usually kept singly, and rated intermediate to keep.
Updated
- Minimum tank
- 300 L (79 US gal)
- Temperature
- 22–28 °C (72–82 °F)
- pH
- 6.5–8
- Adult size
- 20 cm (7.9 in)
- Group size
- 1+
Care requirements
- Minimum tank volume
- 300 L (79 US gal)
- Temperature
- 22–28 °C (72–82 °F)
- pH
- 6.5–8
- Hardness
- 5–20 dGH
- Lifespan
- 10–15 years
- Diet
- Carnivore — pellets, frozen foods, earthworm, prawn.
- Care level
- Intermediate
Origin & habitat
- Native region
- Central America
- Water type
- Freshwater
- Biotope
- Slow, warm, sandy rivers
- Natural conditions
- Sand, rock caves, strong filtration; the blue form is more delicate.
Behaviour & stocking
- Temperament
- Aggressive
- Minimum group
- 1 fish
- Swims
- All levels
- Good tank mates
- Similar-sized Central American cichlidsLarge plecos
- Avoid
- Community fishSmall tanksPlants
Breeding & difficulty
- Breeding difficulty
- Intermediate
- Sexing
- Males are larger with pointed fins.
- Notes
- Substrate spawner; pairs are very aggressive when guarding.
- Common ailments
- Hole-in-the-headIchFight injuries
Will it fit your tank?
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