Banded Jewel Cichlid (Hemichromis guttatus)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameHemichromis guttatus

FamilyCichlidae

Also known asCommon Jewel Cichlid, Guttatus, Jewelfish

Care levelModerate

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentAggressive

DietCarnivore

Adult size5.5 in

Minimum tank size30 gallons

Water parametersTemp 72-82°F, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 5-15 dGH

Appearance

Golden-red body with three dark blotches along the side and dense iridescent blue-green spangling over the flanks and fins; reddens strongly in breeding condition.

Difficulty and care for the Banded Jewel Cichlid

Moderate

Origin and habitat

West Africa (Nigeria, Cameroon)

Keeper notes

The jewel most often sold under the bimaculatus name; equally aggressive when breeding and territorial year-round. Pairs will dominate a community tank.

Log Banded Jewel Cichlid in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Banded Jewel Cichlid alongside everything else in your reef.

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