A strikingly beautiful but notoriously aggressive West African riverine cichlid. Unlike the alkaline-loving Rift Lake cichlids (e.g., Mbuna), Jewel Cichlids prefer neutral, softer water parameters. They are renowned for their brilliant red breeding dress and iridescent blue spots, but also for their extreme territoriality, especially when forming pairs and spawning. They are avid diggers and will uproot most plants.
At a Glance
Tank Requirements
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Water Parameters
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Temperament & Compatibility
Available Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Standard
The standard African Jewel Cichlid. Best kept as a solitary specimen in a community of similarly sized, robust fish, or as a single mated pair in a species-only tank. If a pair forms, they will violently defend their territory against all other tank mates.
Same care requirements as the base species
Also known as: Wild Type, Common Jewel
African Jewel Cichlid Care Guide Summary
The African Jewel Cichlid, scientifically known as Hemichromis bimaculatus, belongs to the Cichlids - African family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 14 cm and have a compressed body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as aggressive, this species primarily occupies the mid-level and bottom zones of the aquarium and produces a high level of biological waste.
To thrive, the African Jewel Cichlid requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 110 litres and a tank length of at least 90 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 22°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 6.5–7.5 and a general hardness of 4–15 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred. An aquarium test kit can help you monitor these values.
Due to its specialist needs, the African Jewel Cichlid is best suited for fishkeepers who can provide a carefully planned setup. The African Jewel Cichlid is typically available in one standard form.
African Jewel Cichlid Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the African Jewel Cichlid, a moderate water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the mid-level and bottom zones, the aquarium layout should prioritise open swimming space in the centre of the tank for free movement and sufficient floor space with hiding spots among rocks, wood, or dense planting. Useful additions include a sand substrate to accommodate their sifting behaviour, smooth gravel or rounded substrate to protect their sensitive barbels, and driftwood, which can serve as both a hiding place and a dietary supplement. Keepers should note that expect substrate disturbance, so lightweight décor should be secured and live planted layouts may be difficult to maintain, as this species tends to uproot or consume vegetation. Browse aquarium sand substrate options to find the best fit.
African Jewel Cichlid Compatibility Notes
Classified as aggressive, the African Jewel Cichlid is adaptable and can be kept singly or in a small group, offering flexibility when planning a community tank. When choosing tankmates, conspecific aggression can be intense, especially in smaller tanks and territorial behaviour may cause issues if hiding spots or floor space are limited. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the mid-level and bottom zones can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Recommended Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes that meet the minimum volume and length requirements for African Jewel Cichlid.
30 Gallon Breeder
40 Gallon Breeder
55 Gallon Standard
60 Gallon Breeder
75 Gallon Standard
90 Gallon Standard
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Frequently Asked Questions About African Jewel Cichlid
How big does African Jewel Cichlid get?
African Jewel Cichlid (Hemichromis bimaculatus) typically reaches a maximum adult size of approximately 14 cm. They have a compressed body shape and a moderate growth rate.
What tank size does African Jewel Cichlid need?
A minimum aquarium volume of 110 litres and a tank length of at least 90 cm are recommended for African Jewel Cichlid. This ensures enough swimming space and helps maintain stable water conditions.
What water parameters does African Jewel Cichlid need?
African Jewel Cichlid thrives in freshwater only conditions with a temperature range of 22–28°C, a pH between 6.5 and 7.5, and a general hardness of 4–15 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
Is African Jewel Cichlid peaceful or aggressive?
African Jewel Cichlid is classified as aggressive with an aggression score of 8 out of 10. Careful tankmate selection is essential to avoid conflict.
Can African Jewel Cichlid live alone?
Yes, African Jewel Cichlid can be kept singly or in a group. They are flexible and adapt well to both setups.
Does African Jewel Cichlid have any special tank requirements?
Yes. African Jewel Cichlid benefits from sand (sifters), smooth gravel (sensitive barbels), and driftwood (digestion/hiding) in the aquarium. These features help replicate their natural habitat and promote overall health and well-being.
Similar Species
Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna)
Melanochromis auratus
The Auratus Cichlid is a stunning but notoriously aggressive Mbuna from Lake Malawi. They exhibit extreme sexual dimorphism. They are strictly rock-dwellers that graze on algae (aufwuchs). Due to their hyper-aggressive nature, they must be kept in species-only or carefully managed, overstocked Mbuna setups with a strict harem ratio (1 male to several females) to disperse aggression.
Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus)
Tropheus duboisi
An iconic Lake Tanganyika cichlid famous for its dramatic life-stage color change. Juveniles are jet black with brilliant white polka-dots, while adults develop a blue head and a distinctive yellow or white vertical band across a dark body. They are highly aggressive toward their own kind and must be kept in large colonies (10+) to disperse aggression. They are strict herbivores that require a specialized diet to avoid fatal digestive issues.
Red Devil Cichlid
Amphilophus labiatus
A massive, extremely aggressive Central American cichlid. Aptly named, the Red Devil is highly intelligent, interactive, and famous for 'glass-banging' at their owners. They are powerful diggers that will uproot plants and rearrange decor. Because of their sheer aggression and jaw strength, they are almost exclusively kept as 'wet pets' in solitary setups.
Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara)
Aulonocara sp.
Endemic to Lake Malawi, Peacock Cichlids are highly sought after for the breathtaking colors of the males. They are benthivorous, using sensory pores on their jaws to hunt small invertebrates in the sand. While territorial, they are generally peaceful compared to their aggressive Mbuna cousins. They require hard, alkaline water and a sandy substrate to prevent gill damage while sifting.
Cuckoo Catfish
Synodontis multipunctatus
A striking African catfish famous for its 'cuckoo' breeding strategy, where it sneaks its eggs into the clutches of mouthbrooding cichlids. They are highly active, social, and thrive in hard, alkaline water typical of Lake Tanganyika. They must be kept in groups to diffuse conspecific aggression and are best kept with Rift Lake cichlids.
Kribensis
Pelvicachromis pulcher
A vibrant and highly popular dwarf cichlid native to the slow-moving rivers of West Africa. Unlike Rift Lake African cichlids, they prefer soft, slightly acidic water and densely planted tanks. They are generally peaceful in a community tank but become fiercely territorial and aggressive when breeding, often digging pits in the substrate and claiming the bottom zone. They are cave spawners and require hiding spots like driftwood or coconut shells.