Jack Dempsey
Rocio octofasciata
Minimum Tank
55 Gallons
Adult Size
10 inches
Temperature
72-86°F (22-30°C)
pH Range
6.5-8.0
Lifespan
15 years
About Jack Dempsey
The Jack Dempsey cichlid is a robust, powerful fish named after the famous 1920s heavyweight boxing champion due to its aggressive nature and strong facial features. Native to the slow-moving waters of Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras, it is one of the classic large New World cichlids. Wild-type Jack Dempseys are dark olive to gray with iridescent blue and green spangles that intensify with age and mood. The electric blue Jack Dempsey, a naturally occurring color morph selectively bred for enhanced blue coloring, has become extremely popular for its stunning metallic blue appearance. These are intelligent, long-lived fish that can reach 10 inches and develop distinct personalities.
Care Requirements
Tank Setup
- • Minimum 55-gallon tank required
- • Temperature: 72-86°F (22-30°C)
- • pH: 6.5 - 8.0
- • Category: Cichlid
Diet & Feeding
- • Diet type: Carnivore
- • Feed 1-2 times daily
- • Varied diet recommended
Tank Mate Compatibility
Compatible With
Avoid Keeping With
Care Tips
Expert Tips
Jack Dempseys need a tank of at least 55 gallons for a single fish, with 75 gallons or more for a pair. They are territorial and aggressive, especially during breeding, so provide robust decorations like rocks and driftwood to create territory boundaries. Use sand or fine gravel substrate, as they like to dig. Feed quality cichlid pellets as a staple with frozen foods and occasional earthworms. Water temperature should be 72-86°F with moderate flow. The electric blue variant is generally less aggressive but more delicate than the standard form. Avoid housing with significantly smaller fish that could become prey. Strong filtration and regular water changes are essential due to their heavy bioload.
Quick Facts
208L
Min Tank (55gal)
25cm
Adult Size (10")
15yr
Lifespan
1+
Can Keep Solo
Build Your Perfect Community Tank
Find compatible tankmates for your Jack Dempsey
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Tank Mates for Jack Dempsey
Species from our database with overlapping water parameters, compatible temperaments and a realistic shared tank size.
Convict Cichlid
Amatitlania nigrofasciata
easy · 30+ gal
Flying Fox
Epalzeorhynchos kalopterus
moderate · 40+ gal
Oscar
Astronotus ocellatus
moderate · 75+ gal
Rainbow Shark
Epalzeorhynchos frenatum
moderate · 55+ gal
Similar Care Level
Other moderate-care species that suit a comparable setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tank does a Jack Dempsey need?
A Jack Dempsey needs a minimum tank size of 55 gallons (208 litres).
What water parameters does a Jack Dempsey need?
Jack Dempsey thrive in water between 72-86°F (22-30°C) with a pH of 6.5-8.0.
Are Jack Dempsey easy to care for?
Jack Dempsey are considered moderate to care for. They are aggressive fish with a lifespan of about 15 years.
How big do Jack Dempsey get and what do they eat?
Jack Dempsey reach about 10 inches and are carnivores. Jack Dempseys need a tank of at least 55 gallons for a single fish, with 75 gallons or more for a pair. They are territorial and aggressive, especially during breeding, so provide robust decorations like rocks and driftwood to create territory boundaries. Use sand or fine gravel substrate, as they like to dig. Feed quality cichlid pellets as a staple with frozen foods and occasional earthworms. Water temperature should be 72-86°F with moderate flow. The electric blue variant is generally less aggressive but more delicate than the standard form. Avoid housing with significantly smaller fish that could become prey. Strong filtration and regular water changes are essential due to their heavy bioload.