Red Jewel Cichlid

Hemichromis bimaculatus, the Red Jewel or Jewel Cichlid, is found across West and Central Africa in a variety of freshwater habitats. Outside of breeding condition it displays a modest olive-brown body with two prominent black spots — one at the mid-body and one at the base of the tail — but during breeding, both sexes transform into an astonishing deep crimson-red, covered in iridescent turquoise-blue spots that appear like scattered gems.

This dramatic colour change makes the Jewel Cichlid one of the most visually spectacular small cichlids available, and breeding pairs are among the most stunning sights in the freshwater aquarium hobby. However, this beauty comes with a significant caveat: breeding pairs are intensely aggressive and will attack and kill almost any other fish in the aquarium with great determination.

For observers interested in cichlid breeding behaviour, the Jewel Cichlid offers one of the most engaging and accessible breeding experiences, as pairs spawn readily in captivity and provide exemplary bi-parental care.

Water: 22–28°C, pH 6.5–7.5, soft to moderately hard; regular partial water changes maintain colour. Tank: Minimum 150L for a pair; flat rock spawning surfaces; hiding spots for subdominant fish. Feeding: Carnivore; quality cichlid pellets, frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp, and small earthworms. Breeding: Easy to breed; both parents defend eggs and fry intensely; remove other fish during breeding. Compatibility: Very aggressive especially when breeding; best as a species pair; not community suitable during spawning.