Jack Dempsey Cichlid

About the Jack Dempsey Cichlid

The Jack Dempsey cichlid (Rocio octofasciata) is a popular freshwater fish known for its vibrant colors and aggressive nature. It has a flat, oval body with a base color of gray-brown to red-brown, often with iridescent blue and green spots. Adults can reach 7-8 inches (18-20 cm) in length. They are native to Central America and require a spacious aquarium with warm, neutral water.

Husbandry & Care

Temperament: Aggressive

Minimum Tank Size: 55 Gallons

Water Temperature: 68-86°F

Water pH: 6.5-8.0

Social Group: Single or M/F pair. Strongly not recommended to have a M/F pair with other fish unless it is in a very large aquarium.

Diet: Omnivorous; Commercial Flakes/Pellets for New World Cichlids, frozen bloodworms/brine shrimp, blanched vegetables (spinach, zucchini), chopped prawns, shrimp, tilapia.

Compatible with: Common Pleco, Green Terror Cichlid, Firemouth Cichlid, other larger semi-aggressive to aggressive New World Cichlids that cannot be eaten.