Jack Dempsey (Rocio octofasciata)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameRocio octofasciata

FamilyCichlidae

Also known asDempsey, Cichlasoma octofasciatum

Care levelModerate

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentAggressive

Dietcarnivore

Adult size10 in

Minimum tank size55 gallons

Water parametersTemp 72-82°F, pH 6.5-8.0, GH 8-20 dGH

Appearance

Dark body densely speckled with iridescent blue-green spangles; mature males very colorful. Stocky build.

Difficulty and care for the Jack Dempsey

Moderate

Origin and habitat

Central America (Mexico to Honduras)

Keeper notes

Pugnacious and territorial (named for the boxer). Will eat smaller fish; best kept singly, as a pair, or with large robust cichlids.

Log Jack Dempsey 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 Jack Dempsey alongside everything else in your reef.

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