Description
Turkana Jewel Cichlid (Hemichromis letourneuxi)
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Hemichromis letourneuxi
Common Names: Turkana Jewel Cichlid, African Jewel Cichlid
Family: Cichlidae (Cichlids)
Order: Perciformes
Origin: East Africa — primarily Lake Turkana region and surrounding rivers in Kenya and Ethiopia
Size: Up to 6 inches (15 cm) in captivity
Lifespan: 5 – 8 years
Tank Zone: Mid to top dweller; territorial and semi-aggressive
🌊 Water Parameters
TDS: 100 – 300 ppm
pH: 6.5 – 7.8
Temperature: 24 – 28°C (75 – 82°F)
Hardness: 8 – 15 dGH
🐟 Characteristics
Body: Bright red-orange body with jewel-like blue or green iridescent spots; deep-bodied and laterally compressed.
Behavior: Aggressive and highly territorial, especially during breeding.
Swimming Style: Active swimmer; patrols its territory and defends nesting sites.
Unique Feature: Color intensifies during courtship and when guarding eggs or fry.
Nature: Intelligent, interactive, and predatory towards smaller fish.
🍽️ Food
Type: Omnivorous
Diet: High-quality cichlid pellets, frozen or live foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp), occasional vegetables.
Feeding: Twice daily in small portions.
Tip: Protein-rich diet enhances vibrant coloration and overall health.
🛠️ Maintenance
Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons (114 L) for a single adult; larger tanks required for multiple specimens.
Filtration: Strong filtration needed due to moderate bioload.
Decor: Rocks, caves, and driftwood to establish territories; open swimming space preferred.
Lighting: Moderate; enhances jewel-like colors.
Water Change: 25% weekly to maintain water quality.
👥 Social Behavior
Minimum Group Size: Can be kept in pairs or harems; aggressive if space is limited.
Tank Mates: Other robust African cichlids of similar size; avoid small, delicate fish.
Avoid: Small or passive fish — likely to be bullied or eaten.
✅ Do’s
Provide plenty of hiding places and rocks for territories.
Feed a varied, protein-rich diet.
Maintain stable water conditions and proper filtration.
Keep sufficient space to reduce aggression.
❌ Don’ts
Don’t house with small, delicate, or slow-moving fish.
Don’t overcrowd the tank.
Don’t neglect regular water changes or filtration.
⭐ Quick Tips
The Turkana Jewel Cichlid is a vividly colored and territorial African cichlid, ideal for aquarists who enjoy active and interactive fish.
It thrives in well-structured aquariums with caves and rocks, displaying its jewel-like red and blue markings.
Perfect for advanced aquarists familiar with cichlid behavior and tank management.
