Jewel Cichlid

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Forest rivers, mud systems and pools in Guinea (West Africa). Inhabits areas where there is a lot of shelter (fallen branches) to patrol the banks.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Jewel Cichlid (Hemichromis bimaculatus). Iconic cichlid. Appears almost harmless but embodies a robust, hydrodynamic body, with jaws capable of flaying opponents twice its size. It has two large dark spots (bi-maculatus).

Social Behavior: Hellish in reproduction. Basically a peaceful and reserved fish, it forms inseparable pairs for life. If the pair goes into heat, it actively, brutally and programmatically kills ANY OTHER FISH in the tank.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Incredible for a freshwater fish: when healthy it turns a scarlet or crimson "fresh blood" red, literally inlaid with hundreds of iridescent turquoise/neon blue dots (The jewels). Male slightly larger; identical colors.

Aquarium Setup: In 100-120 cm (40-48 inches) tanks the ideal is to create barriers and hiding places in abundance with Java roots and heavy rock formations. Fragile plants (Vallisneria) will be uprooted by the crazed diggers; anchor only ferns and Anubias on tall woods.

Diet and Feeding: Very voracious carnivore / micro-predator. Administer frozen food (Krill, Bloodworms, crushed shrimp, silversides), special mashes for cichlids, earthworms. In case of poor or poorly preserved food the colors fade to mud.

Water Quality: Incredibly resilient and adaptable fish. They tolerate thermal shocks, hard African waters and even chemical shocks that would kill other cichlids. Regular cool water changes encourage heat.

Compatibility and Tankmates: TERRIBLE tankmate for 80% of ornamental fish. NEVER put it in community tanks or with Angelfish. Excellent only in aggressive tanks (armored Malawi Cichlids) or large fast "Monster Fish" (Congo Tetras, Synodontis).

Aquarium Reproduction: Terror comes to life! They lay hundreds of eggs on a clean rock. In the following 30 days mom and dad create an impassable column of shields, throwing bites at dogs and cats that approach even from the outer glass.

Risks and Diseases: The "Tank Genocide". The main risk you run by buying them is to wake up one morning (after an unexpected spawning) with ALL the fish you cared for floating disemboweled.