Jewel Cichlid

Hemichromis bimaculatus

CichlidsIntermediate
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Species Details

Jewel Cichlids are stunning West African cichlids with brilliant red colouration and iridescent blue-green spots. While beautiful, they are highly aggressive and require careful tank mate selection.

Intermediate Care Level

Basic Information

Size12-15 cm (5-6 inches)
TemperamentHighly Aggressive
DietOmnivorous
Lifespan8-12 years
Tank Size208+ litres (55+ gallons)

Water Parameters

Temperature
22-28°C (72-82°F)
pH Level
6.5-7.5
Hardness
8-20 dGH

Tank Mate Recommendations

Based on 1 selected species

Current Selection:

Jewel Cichlid
Fully Compatible Species
Compatible

Tanganyikan Cichlids

Various Lamprologus, Julidochromis, Neolamprologus

Cichlids
Size:5-20 cm (2-8 inches)
Care Level:Intermediate
Temperament:Semi-aggressive
100%
Compatible

Pleco Catfish

Various Hypostomus, Pterygoplichthys species

Catfish
Size:15-45 cm (6-18 inches)
Care Level:Intermediate
Temperament:Peaceful but territorial
100%
Compatible

Barbs

Various Barbus, Puntius species

Cyprinids
Size:5-15 cm (2-6 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful/Semi-aggressive
100%
Compatible

Rainbowfish

Various Melanotaenia, Pseudomugil species

Rainbowfish
Size:7-15 cm (3-6 inches)
Care Level:Beginner
Temperament:Peaceful
100%
Compatible

Loaches

Various Botia, Chromobotia species

Loaches
Size:5-30 cm (2-12 inches)
Care Level:Intermediate
Temperament:Peaceful
100%
Compatible

Freshwater Sharks

Various Epalzeorhynchos, Labeo species

Sharks
Size:10-60 cm (4-24 inches)
Care Level:Intermediate
Temperament:Semi-aggressive
100%

💡 Tank Mate Tips

• Consider adult size when planning tank space

• Research specific water parameter requirements

• Introduce new fish gradually to reduce stress

• Monitor behavior closely during the first weeks

Quick Facts

Brilliant red colouration with iridescent spots

Highly aggressive and territorial

Excellent parents with fierce protection instincts

Can become extremely aggressive when breeding

Requires robust tank mates or species setup

Endemic to West African river systems

Adaptable to various water conditions

Males develop more intense colours

May dig and rearrange tank decorations

Beautiful but challenging species to keep

Compatibility Summary

Compatible Species6
Requires Caution6
View full compatibility analysis →

Care Requirements

Tank Size208+ litres (55+ gallons)
Temperature22-28°C (72-82°F)
pH6.5-7.5
Hardness8-20 dGH

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