Jewel cichlid
Hemichromis bimaculatus
FishFreshwater
- Care level
- Easy
- Temperament
- Aggressive
- Recommended tank
- 200 L
- Maximum size
- 15 cm
- Temperature
- 22–28 °C
- pH
- 6.5–7.8
- Diet
- Carnivore
Care at a glance
The jewel cichlid from West Africa is olive brown with blue glitter spots outside the breeding season, but colours up fire red during courtship: one of the finest colour changes you can see in an aquarium. Several very similar Hemichromis species are sold under this trade name.
That splendour has a downside: a breeding pair turns into a combative duo that claims the whole tank as territory. Plan for a roomy aquarium with sight breaks and robust tankmates, or keep the pair on their own.
Good to know
Best not combined with
Related species
Keep Jewel cichlid in the BlubHub app
Add this species to your inhabitants, with count and photos, and see the care info next to your own water values, target bands and reminders. Free, no account, everything on your own device.
Values are mainstream hobbyist guidance, not gospel — always watch what your own animals need.