Stellifer Jewel Cichlid

Hemichromis stellifer is a striking Congo basin species in which the iridescent spotting is particularly dense and brilliant, giving the fish an almost star-studded appearance. It is less common in the hobby than H. bimaculatus but is equally beautiful and shares the same robust, aggressive personality characteristic of the genus during breeding periods.

Water: 23–27°C, pH 6.0–7.5, soft to medium hardness. Tank: Minimum 100L; sturdy rock and wood structures; hardy or artificial plants. Feeding: Cichlid pellets, meaty frozen foods, earthworms, and occasional live prey. Behaviour: Open substrate spawner; pair bond is strong and both parents defend fry intensely. Compatibility: Pairs best kept alone; will harass or kill small tankmates when breeding.