Jewel Cichlid - Hemichromis bimaculatus : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
Jewel Cichlids (Hemichromis bimaculatus) is a striking and vibrant freshwater fish species cherished by aquarium enthusiasts. This Cichlid species is celebrated for its captivating colours and distinct territorial behaviour. While their territorial tendencies require careful consideration when selecting tankmates, the allure of these cichlids lies in their captivating appearance and intriguing behaviour, making them a popular choice for experienced aquarists seeking a visually stunning addition to their aquatic collections.
Successfully maintaining Jewel Cichlids requires strategic planning to address their territorial nature. While pairs are commonly sought after, it's important to recognize that handpicking a compatible male and female does not guarantee their harmonious cohabitation. In fact, dominant individuals may exhibit aggression towards their counterparts, potentially leading to fatal consequences for the subordinate fish. To foster a more natural and balanced dynamic, it is advisable to acquire a group of at least six young Jewel Cichlids. In doing so, you provide the opportunity for a compatible pair to emerge organically, allowing for the harmonious formation of a bonded duo. Consequently, the remaining fish can be thoughtfully rehomed.
When contemplating tankmates for Jewel Cichlids, careful selection is essential, particularly given their heightened aggression during the breeding phase. While larger African tetra species like Alestes, Arnoldichthys, Bathyaethiops, and Phenacogrammus spp., as well as Synodontis catfish, are potential candidates, it is crucial to remain vigilant. Breeding behaviours may necessitate the relocation of tankmates, underscoring why many enthusiasts opt for a species-exclusive aquarium setting to appreciate the beauty of these cichlids without disruption.
Jewel Cichlids are renowned for their territorial behaviour and must be housed in adequately spacious aquaria, ideally with a minimum length of 4 feet. It is imperative to incorporate numerous visual barriers within the aquarium decor to mitigate their inherent territorial disputes. While such antagonistic behaviours may not pose significant challenges in their natural habitat, they can become problematic in the confines of an aquarium.
To create an optimal environment, provide a sandy substrate and establish an array of hiding spots characterized by pebbles, rocks, pieces of slate, and flowerpots placed on their sides, along with intricately arranged driftwood formations. Ensuring that lines of sight are consistently disrupted is essential. Although Jewel Cichlids appreciate areas of dense planting, it is advisable to select resilient plant species that can be securely affixed and encouraged to grow on the decor, such as Anubias spp. and Java Fern, including floating varieties. The maintenance of efficient filtration with gentle water movement, complemented by routine partial water changes, is instrumental in preserving water quality and sustaining an environment conducive to the well-being of these captivating cichlids.
Jewel Cichlids have an elongated body with a slanted forehead; the lower parts of the body are orange or red, and the upper parts are light olive green. Their lips, cheeks, and lower jaw are bright red, and they have pearly spots ranging in colour from yellow to turquoise and a large black mark on their gill cover. In addition, there are two black spots on the body, one around the midsection and one on the caudal peduncle. The fins range from olive to red with a bright red edge, and during the breeding season, their bodies turn a darker red with iridescent spots covering their entire bodies.
Jewel Cichlid Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Determining the sex of Jewel Cichlids can prove to be a difficult task. However, some distinguishing characteristics can aid in the identification of males. For instance, the caudal fin of males exhibits reticulated blue patterning in the middle. Moreover, in some cases, adult males develop more pointed dorsal, anal, ventral, and dorsal fins.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Hemichromis bimaculatus |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1857 |
| Other Names | African Jewelfish, Jewelfish |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cichliformes |
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Genus | Hemichromis |
| Origins | Algeria , Egypt , Guinea , Liberia |
| Max Size | 15 cm |
| Temperament | Semi-Aggressive |
| Aquarium Level | Bottom - Middle |
| Difficulty | Intermediate - Advanced |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | Pairs |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg Depositor |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 5 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.5 - 7.5 |
| GH | 4 - 18 |
| ℉ | 72 - 82 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 22 - 27 |
Natural Habitat
Jewel Cichlids are a fascinating species with a widespread distribution throughout the western coast of Africa, from South Guinea to Central Liberia. Although rare, these beautiful fish have also been found in Northern Africa from Algeria to Egypt. They are known to thrive in various aquatic environments, including brackish water lagoons, but are most commonly found in small streams, creeks, rivers, lakes, and canals with a muddy substrate. These Cichlids are often found in overhanging and surface vegetation areas, providing ample opportunity to display their natural behaviour and vibrant colours.
Breeding
Jewel Cichlids are renowned for their pair-bonding nature and their unique substrate spawning behaviour. Therefore, creating a conducive environment is vital to breeding success. The ideal water conditions should be slightly acidic, neutral to soft, and at the warmer end of their preferred range. Flat rocks, such as slate, are essential in providing a suitable substrate for the female to deposit her eggs.
To acquire a compatible pair, it is best to purchase a group of young Jewel Cichlids and allow them to form their natural pairs. Once a pair has been established, moving the remaining fish, including tankmates, must be transferred to another tank for safety reasons. Introducing a significant, cool water change is often the trigger for spawning to commence. During this period, the female turns a vibrant red colour, and the pair meticulously selects a suitable spawning site to lay their eggs.
Spawning can be quite an intense affair, with the male pursuing the female vigorously. Therefore, monitoring the process closely and removing the female if she shows any signs of unwillingness is essential, as the male can be overly persistent and harass her to death. Once the female has deposited the eggs on the spawning site, the male fertilizes them. On average, a pair can lay up to 500 eggs, which will hatch within 48 hours. During the hatching period, the female takes care of the eggs while the male aggressively guards the perimeter.
Once hatched, the entire brood is moved to a pre-dug pit located near the spawning site. The fry will remain in this pit for an additional 3-5 days before becoming free-swimming. At this point, they can be fed baby brine shrimp (Artemia nauplii) or microworms. The parents will continue to care for the young for around four weeks before the fry should be moved to another aquarium to avoid the parents spawning again.
Diet & Feeding
Jewel Cichlids are known for their voracious appetite and will readily accept various types of food. To maintain optimal health and enhance their natural colouration, feeding these Cichlids a well-rounded diet is recommended. Offering high-quality, protein-rich live or frozen foods like white mosquito larvae, bloodworm, vitamin-enriched brine shrimp, and Mysis shrimp will promote vibrant colours and ensure that the fish receive adequate nutrition. In addition, providing vegetable matter in the form of vegetable or spirulina wafers, blanched spinach, and high-quality dried products such as Cichlid pellets, flakes, or granules is also highly beneficial for their overall health and well-being. A balanced diet will not only enhance their natural beauty but also promote their longevity in the aquarium.
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