Jewel Cichlid (2 Inches) | Single

The Jewel Cichlid (2 Inches) is a vibrant and striking freshwater fish known for its brilliant coloration and dynamic personality. At 2 inches, this cichlid is still in its juvenile stage but already showcases the stunning colors that make it a popular choice among aquarists.

Appearance:The Jewel Cichlid is famous for its intense, jewel-like coloration, which typically includes a rich red or reddish-orange base color adorned with iridescent blue or green spots scattered across its body. These spots reflect light, giving the fish a sparkling appearance that is especially striking under proper aquarium lighting. The fins are often edged with similar iridescent hues, enhancing the fish's overall beauty. As the fish matures, its colors become even more vivid and pronounced.

Behavior and Temperament: Despite its small size, the Jewel Cichlid is known for its assertive and sometimes aggressive behavior, particularly during breeding times or when establishing territory. This cichlid is highly territorial and can be quite dominant, especially in confined spaces. It is an active swimmer and spends much of its time patrolling its territory, making it both fascinating and challenging to keep. Because of its temperament, careful consideration is needed when selecting tank mates, as the Jewel Cichlid may not get along well with more passive or smaller fish.

Habitat Requirements:To keep the Jewel Cichlid healthy and comfortable, it is important to replicate its natural environment as closely as possible. A tank of at least 20-30 gallons is recommended for a single fish, with larger tanks required if housing multiple cichlids or other species. The water should be kept at a temperature of 75-82°F (24-28°C) with a pH level between 6.5 and 7.5. The aquarium should include plenty of hiding spots created by rocks, driftwood, and plants, as these cichlids appreciate having territories to claim and spaces to retreat to when feeling threatened.

Diet: The Jewel Cichlid is an omnivore, requiring a varied diet to stay healthy and maintain its vibrant colors. A high-quality cichlid pellet or flake food should form the foundation of its diet, supplemented with live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. Additionally, plant-based foods like spirulina flakes or blanched vegetables can be offered to provide balanced nutrition. Feeding should be done once or twice daily, ensuring not to overfeed, as Jewel Cichlids can be prone to obesity.

Care and Compatibility: Due to its territorial and sometimes aggressive nature, the Jewel Cichlid should be kept with caution in a community tank. Ideal tank mates include other robust cichlids or similarly sized fish that can hold their own against the Jewel Cichlid’s assertive behavior. Avoid housing them with very small, passive, or slow-moving species, as these may become targets of aggression. Regular tank maintenance, including frequent water changes and monitoring of water parameters, is crucial to keeping this species healthy and reducing stress.