Jewel Cichlid (Hemichromis bimaculatus)

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Jewel Cichlid

Hemichromis bimaculatus1.jpg
Jewel Cichlid

Hemichromis bimaculatus

170 Litres (45 US G.)

13-14 cm (5.1-5.5")

sg

Freshwater

pH

6.5 - 7.5

21 -23 °C (69.8-73.4°F)

4-16 °d

1:2 M:F

Omnivore
Pellet Foods
Flake Foods
Live Foods

5-8 years

Family

Cichlidae



Additional names

Jewel Fish, Jewel Cichlid, Jewelfish, Two-Spot Jewel Cichlid, Red Jewel Cichlid, African Jewelfish

Additional scientific names

Hemichromis cristatus


Origin

Africa: Widely distributed in West Africa, where it is known from most hydrographic basins, associated with forested biotopes. Also reported from coastal basins of Cameroon, Democratic Republic of the Congo and Nile basin


Sexing

The females tend to be larger and the males more colourful.


Tank compatibility

As with most Cichlids, these fish should be considered semi-aggressive and incompatible with community fish.


Diet

This fish will accept pellets and flake as well as algae-based foods. They will eat live plants.


Feeding regime

Feed once or twice a day.


Environment specifics

These fish need spacious tanks with plenty of hiding places and caves.


Behaviour

This fish should be considered aggressive. It is primarily mid-top dwelling.


Identification

A colourful oval-shaped fish that is red-orange in base colour, with many iridescent blue spots covering the body and fins,they have two dark spots on the flanks. There are hybrids also seen, these lack the dark spots.

Pictures

Videos

Spawning Behaviour:

External links