Jack Dempsey
Rocio octofasciata
Photo: Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons
A large Central American cichlid. One adult wants a 55-gallon and tankmates that can take a punch — or no tankmates.
Large Central American cichlid. A pet, not a mix-in.
In the tank
- One adult is the show. They know the glass is a wall.
- Water
- freshwater
- Temperament
- Aggressive
- Swims
- All levels
- Adult size
- 10 in
- Minimum tank
- 55 gal
- Group
- Can be kept singly
- Temperature
- 72–86°F
- pH
- 6.0–7.5
- Diet
- Cichlid pellets, frozen krill, earthworms. They rearrange décor for fun.
- Beginner
- Not a first fish
How to keep them
- 55 gallons for one.
- They rearrange décor. Heavy hardscape only.
Tankmates
Fish that can take a punch, or none.
Avoid
Community tetras, shrimp, and 20-gallon kits.
Check tankmates · Stocking calculator
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