Jewel Cichlid

Hemichromis bimaculatus is a widespread and vibrantly coloured West African cichlid that reaches peak colouration during breeding, when its entire body turns deep red-orange studded with teal iridescent spots. It is a hardy, adaptable species but becomes extremely aggressive when spawning, requiring careful tankmate selection or a dedicated tank.

Water: 22–28°C, pH 6.5–7.5, medium hardness tolerated. Tank: Minimum 120L; robust furnishings including caves and rocks; hardy plants or artificial décor recommended. Feeding: Cichlid pellets, live and frozen invertebrates, earthworms; avoid a purely dry food diet. Behaviour: Open substrate spawner; both parents guard eggs ferociously and will attack all tankmates. Compatibility: Best kept as a bonded pair alone, or with large robust fish such as other West African cichlids.