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Jewel Cichlid |3-3.5 inch | Single

Jewel Cichlid |3-3.5 inch | Single

₹100.00Price
The Jewel Cichlid (Hemichromis bimaculatus) is a vibrant, stunning fish native to Africa, particularly in the regions of West and Central Africa. Known for its striking colors, this species is prized in the aquarium hobby for its beautiful, jewel-like appearance. The Jewel Cichlid is an active and aggressive fish, making it suitable for experienced aquarium keepers. It is often kept alone or with other similarly sized and tempered fish.
Key Characteristics
  • Scientific Name: Hemichromis bimaculatus
  • Common Names: Jewel Cichlid, Two-Spotted Jewel Cichlid, Red Jewel Cichlid
  • Size: 6–8 inches (15–20 cm)
  • Lifespan: 5–10 years in captivity
  • Coloration:
    • The Jewel Cichlid is known for its brilliant red, orange, or yellow body color with iridescent blue or green speckles.
    • Some individuals may have dark spots or markings on their bodies.
    • Males tend to have more vivid coloration compared to females, especially during breeding periods.
Water Parameters
  • Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
  • pH: 6.5–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
  • Hardness: 8–15 dGH (moderately hard to hard water)
  • Water Quality:
    • Regular water changes (20-25% per week) are essential to maintain water quality and prevent the build-up of waste in the tank.
    • Jewel Cichlids thrive in clean, well-filtered water with stable conditions.
Tank Setup
  • Tank Size:
    • A 30-gallon tank is the minimum size for a single Jewel Cichlid. For a pair, consider a 55-gallon tank or larger.
  • Substrate:
    • A soft, sandy substrate is preferred, as Jewel Cichlids can be sensitive to rough materials.
    • Avoid sharp or coarse gravel, which could damage their sensitive skin.
  • Decor and Plants:
    • Provide rocks, caves, and hiding spots for the fish to establish territories.
    • Live plants can be added, but Jewel Cichlids are known to rearrange the tank, so be sure to place plants in sturdy spots.
    • Ensure that the tank has plenty of hiding spaces for the fish to retreat to when they feel threatened or stressed.
  • Filtration:
    • A strong filtration system is necessary to keep the water clean, as Jewel Cichlids are relatively messy eaters.
  • Lighting:
    • Moderate lighting is sufficient. Bright lighting might stress these fish, especially if they have too many hiding spots, so balance the lighting for a natural day-night cycle.
Diet
  • Type: Omnivorous
  • Preferred Foods:
    • Jewel Cichlids enjoy a variety of foods, including high-quality pellets, flakes, and live/frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
    • They also benefit from a variety of vegetables such as peas, zucchini, and spinach.
  • Feeding Tips:
    • Feed 2–3 times per day with small portions, offering a variety of foods to ensure proper nutrition.
    • Remove any uneaten food within 5–10 minutes to prevent water contamination.
Behavior and Tank Mates
  • Behavior:
    • Jewel Cichlids are generally territorial and can be aggressive, especially during breeding. They may not tolerate smaller or more peaceful tankmates.
    • They are active swimmers and prefer an aquarium with plenty of open space to explore.
  • Tank Mates:
    • Due to their aggressive nature, Jewel Cichlids are best kept with similarly sized or aggressive fish, such as large tetras, barbs, or other cichlids.
    • Avoid housing them with small, peaceful fish or invertebrates, as they may be bullied or eaten.
Breeding
  • Breeding Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
  • Breeding Setup:
    • Jewel Cichlids are monogamous, and once a pair forms, they will typically breed in the same location, such as a flat rock or piece of wood.
    • It is important to ensure there are sufficient hiding spots for the female, as the male can become aggressive during this time.
  • Care for Fry:
    • Once the eggs hatch, the parents will guard the fry fiercely.
    • Feed the fry finely crushed food or liquid fry food. Once the fry are large enough, you can feed them baby brine shrimp.
Care Tips
  • Tank Size: Make sure the tank is large enough for the fish to establish territory, and provide plenty of hiding spaces.
  • Water Quality: Regular water changes and strong filtration are crucial for maintaining good water quality.
  • Aggression Management: Be mindful of the aggressive behavior of Jewel Cichlids, especially during breeding times.
  • Diet: Offer a varied diet to meet all their nutritional needs, and avoid overfeeding.
Why Choose a Jewel Cichlid?
  • Aesthetic Appeal: Jewel Cichlids are stunning, with their vibrant red and orange colors adorned with iridescent blue or green highlights. Their appearance makes them stand out in any aquarium.
  • Unique Behavior: Their territorial and aggressive nature adds an interesting dynamic to the aquarium, especially for those who enjoy watching cichlids interact.
  • Hardy and Resilient: Jewel Cichlids are hardy and can adapt to various water conditions, making them relatively easy to care for if their needs are met.
Conclusion
The Jewel Cichlid is a beautiful and hardy fish that can add a burst of color and life to your aquarium. Its vibrant red, orange, and iridescent hues make it a standout species, and its behavior adds intrigue and excitement to the tank. However, due to its territorial and sometimes aggressive nature, this fish is best suited for experienced aquarists who are familiar with the needs and temperament of cichlids. With the right care, the Jewel Cichlid can be a long-lived and stunning addition to a well-maintained aquarium.

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