Jewel Cichlid
Hemichromis bimaculatus
Minimum Tank
30 Gallons
Adult Size
6 inches
Temperature
74-82°F (23-28°C)
pH Range
6.5-7.5
Lifespan
5 years
About Jewel Cichlid
The jewel cichlid is a fiery and territorial fish from the rivers and lakes of West and Central Africa. During breeding, both males and females develop an intense, brilliant red coloration covered in iridescent blue-green spots that sparkle like jewels, giving the species its common name. Outside of breeding, they are still attractive fish with olive to reddish-brown bodies and scattered iridescent spots. Jewel cichlids are notorious for their extreme aggression, particularly when breeding, and will fearlessly attack fish many times their size to defend their territory and offspring. Despite their challenging temperament, dedicated keepers find their vivid breeding colors and devoted parental behavior deeply rewarding.
Care Requirements
Tank Setup
- • Minimum 30-gallon tank required
- • Temperature: 74-82°F (23-28°C)
- • pH: 6.5 - 7.5
- • Category: Cichlid
Diet & Feeding
- • Diet type: Omnivore
- • Feed 1-2 times daily
- • Varied diet recommended
Tank Mate Compatibility
Compatible With
Avoid Keeping With
Care Tips
Expert Tips
Jewel cichlids need a tank of at least 40 gallons with robust decorations that create visual barriers and territories. They are highly aggressive, especially during breeding, and should only be kept with other robust, assertive fish that can hold their own. Avoid housing with small or peaceful species. Provide sand or fine gravel substrate with rocks, driftwood, and hardy plants like Java fern that can withstand their digging. They accept a wide range of conditions from 72-82°F. Feed quality cichlid pellets, frozen foods, and occasional live foods. If a pair forms, be prepared for extreme territorial behavior. Consider keeping them in a species-only setup if aggression becomes unmanageable.
Quick Facts
114L
Min Tank (30gal)
15cm
Adult Size (6")
5yr
Lifespan
1+
Can Keep Solo
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Tank Mates for Jewel Cichlid
Species from our database with overlapping water parameters, compatible temperaments and a realistic shared tank size.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tank does a Jewel Cichlid need?
A Jewel Cichlid needs a minimum tank size of 30 gallons (114 litres).
What water parameters does a Jewel Cichlid need?
Jewel Cichlid thrive in water between 74-82°F (23-28°C) with a pH of 6.5-7.5.
Are Jewel Cichlid easy to care for?
Jewel Cichlid are considered moderate to care for. They are aggressive fish with a lifespan of about 5 years.
How big do Jewel Cichlid get and what do they eat?
Jewel Cichlid reach about 6 inches and are omnivores. Jewel cichlids need a tank of at least 40 gallons with robust decorations that create visual barriers and territories. They are highly aggressive, especially during breeding, and should only be kept with other robust, assertive fish that can hold their own. Avoid housing with small or peaceful species. Provide sand or fine gravel substrate with rocks, driftwood, and hardy plants like Java fern that can withstand their digging. They accept a wide range of conditions from 72-82°F. Feed quality cichlid pellets, frozen foods, and occasional live foods. If a pair forms, be prepared for extreme territorial behavior. Consider keeping them in a species-only setup if aggression becomes unmanageable.