Jewel Cichlid

Hemichromis spp.

Minimum Tank Size

40+ gal

Temperature

74–82°F

PH

6.5–8.0

Adult Size

4–6 in

Temperament 

Aggressive, highly territorial when breeding

Care Difficulty

Advanced

Diet & Feeding

Provide a varied species-appropriate diet using a quality staple plus supplemental foods that match natural feeding behavior. Avoid overfeeding.

Care Instructions

Keep conditions stable around 74–82°F with suitable chemistry. Account for adult size, behavior, bioload, and escape risk where relevant.

Flow & Filtration

Use mature biological filtration and appropriate oxygenation/flow. Keep ammonia and nitrite at zero and manage nitrate through routine water changes.

Planted Tank Suitability

Plant compatibility varies with digging, grazing, size, and water chemistry. Use hardy or protected plants when necessary.

Tank Mate Compatibility

Good Tank Mates
  • Robust Similar-sized Cichlids

Use Caution 
  • Large Catfish

Avoid
  • Peaceful Community Fish

Compatibility Notes

Stunning coloration comes with strong territorial behavior; pairs may dominate community setups.

Breeding Notes

Breeding strategy varies by species; provide appropriate spawning sites and separate fry or young when necessary.