Description

Red Jewel Cichlid (Hemichromis bimaculatus)

📌 Basic Info

Scientific Name: Hemichromis bimaculatus
Common Names: Red Jewel Cichlid, African Jewel Cichlid
Family: Cichlidae (Cichlids)
Order: Perciformes
Origin: West Africa — rivers and streams in Ghana, Nigeria, and surrounding regions
Size: Up to 6 inches (15 cm) in captivity
Lifespan: 5 – 8 years
Tank Zone: Mid to top dweller; territorial

🌊 Water Parameters

TDS: 100 – 300 ppm
pH: 6.5 – 7.5
Temperature: 24 – 28°C (75 – 82°F)
Hardness: 8 – 15 dGH

🐟 Characteristics

Body: Vibrant red body with iridescent blue or green spots resembling jewels; deep-bodied and laterally compressed.
Behavior: Aggressive and territorial, especially during breeding.
Swimming Style: Active swimmer; patrolling its territory.
Unique Feature: Intense coloration becomes brighter during courtship and when defending territory.
Nature: Predatory towards smaller fish; intelligent and interactive with tank mates.

🍽️ Food

Type: Omnivorous
Diet: High-quality cichlid pellets, frozen or live foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp), occasional vegetables.
Feeding: Twice daily in small portions.
Tip: Offer protein-rich diet to enhance coloration.

🛠️ Maintenance

Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons (114 L) for a single adult; larger tanks for multiple specimens.
Filtration: Strong filtration required; produces moderate bioload.
Decor: Rocks, caves, and driftwood for territories; open swimming space recommended.
Lighting: Moderate; enhances coloration.
Water Change: 25% weekly to maintain water quality.

👥 Social Behavior

Minimum Group Size: Can be kept in pairs or harems; aggressive in groups without enough space.
Tank Mates: Larger, robust fish that can handle aggression (other African cichlids, some catfish).
Avoid: Small, delicate fish — likely to be bullied or eaten.

✅ Do’s

Provide hiding places and territorial boundaries.
Feed a varied, protein-rich diet.
Maintain stable water conditions.
Keep in appropriately sized tank to reduce aggression.

❌ Don’ts

Don’t keep with very small or passive fish.
Don’t overcrowd the tank.
Don’t ignore water changes and filtration needs.

⭐ Quick Tips

The Red Jewel Cichlid is a vividly colored, aggressive African cichlid, perfect for aquarists who enjoy interactive, territorial fish.
It thrives in well-structured aquariums with rocks and caves, showing off its spectacular red and jewel-like markings.
Ideal for advanced aquarists familiar with cichlid behavior.