Jack Dempsey

Aggressive and a substrate digger, the Jack Dempsey Cichlid, Cichlasoma octofasciatum, should be kept singly or only with other fish of equal assertiveness. Its body coloration ranges from deep brown to black with white and blue scale reflections. Occuring from slow-moving, mud-bottom waters, this South American beauty is a true carnivore. Bloodworms, beef heart, and even earthworms are all devoured quickly. Its belligerent personality wanes during breeding as it becomes the ideal parent. Parents take excellent care of and protect as many as 1,000 fry that can be produced by an adult pair during one mating season. Males can grow to lengths over 7 inches (females slightly smaller), so only large aquariums should house the Jack Dempsey.

Approximate arrival size for Jack Dempsey:
Small: 1 to 2 in.; Medium: 2.25 to 3 in.; Large: 3.25 to 4in.

Detailed Information about this species.
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