Jack Dempsey - Rocio octofasciata - Small

The Jack Dempsey is named for the boxer of the same name. It is a belligerent cichlid and can be very aggressive. It has an olive background color with dark vertical bars, and the scales are highlighted with metallic blue-green coloration. The intensity of the metallic scales and dark bars varies from specimen to specimen. Feed these cichlids flake, pellet, and frozen meaty treats. They grow quite large and aggressive, particularly when established and spawning. Only other cichlids of similar temperament should be considered as tankmates. They will enjoy a tank with ample rockwork to explore, and plants, though sometimes they can redecorate certain areas of their tank to their own liking, uprooting plants and knocking over other decor.