![]() There are certain situations where a jewel cichlid will become aggressive. When they reach adulthood, they tend to stay near their chosen shelter. ![]() They explore all tank areas but favor a chosen territory, especially if they have formed a bonded pair. They often bond with their owners and visibly react when they are fed. Their tendency toward aggression means a higher potential for stress and injury. This is one species that benefits greatly from the most peaceful environment you can establish. The most important factors influencing your fish’s lifespan will be water quality, diet, and overall tank environment. With proper care, expect your jewel cichlid to have a lifespan of about five years. Adults reach their maximum size in about two years. Newborn fry will reach a length of about 0.4 inches (1 cm) in about a month. Interestingly, wild cichlids can grow significantly larger, up to a foot (30.5 cm) in length! How fast do jewel cichlids grow? In captivity, the jewel cichlid will grow to a length of about six inches (15 cm). Look for a slight point to the male’s dorsal fin and a net-like pattern on the tail. How can you tell if a jewel cichlid is male or female? There is very little differentiation to determine which fish are male or female. If they are unwell or stressed, their colors will be dull.Ī juvenile cichlid’s colors may be dull when you first purchase them, but with good care, you should see them brighten. When the fish are happy and healthy, their colors appear brighter. Blue variation of a jewel cichlid (on the right) Both variations have brilliant turquoise dots over the body and fins. The jewel cichlid is a colorful fish that comes in two variations, one with a red/orange base color and another in gray/blue. ![]() The first dot appears behind the eye on the gill cover, the second just past the mid-point of the body, and the last near the base of the tail. The dots may be prominently present or faded The anal fin sweeps backward in a similar manner, ending at the same place.Ī row of up to three black dots appears just above the lateral line. The dorsal fin covers the rear two-thirds of the body, sweeping backward and ending just past the base of the tail fin. Just past the head, a hump rises then blends into the rest of the body. It has large eyes and a strong, upward-turned mouth. The body shape of the jewel is long, pointed, and compressed laterally. ![]() The waters they inhabit have muddy bottoms and are rich with overhanging and floating vegetation. It is widely distributed in Guinea, Sierra Leone, and Liberia. This fish is a river and lake-dwelling species from West Africa. Read on for more on the care and breeding of the jewel cichlid. In the right environment, these fish are active, responsive to their owners, and excellent parents. Jewels are considered an aggressive cichlid species and are best for experienced aquarists who can manage that aggression. It is occasionally mistaken for another African cichlid with the scientific name Hemichromis letourneuxi, which has a similar appearance and is an invasive species in parts of Florida. The jewel cichlid ( Hemichromis bimaculatus) goes by several names, including blue or green or popular red jewel cichlid and African jewelfish. This means that a sparkling flash of color in your tank comes with a fiery personality to match. As their name suggests, jewel cichlids are both strikingly beautiful and, well, cichlids. ![]()
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