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Basics

Scientific Name: Rocio octofasciata

Family: Cichlidae

Origin: South America

Quick Facts

• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Aggressive
• Lifespan: 10-15 years
• Water Conditions: 78-82° F, KH 5-12, pH 6.5-8.0
• Maximum Size: 8"- 10"
• Diet: Carnivore
• Minimum Tank Size: 50 gallons

Overview

Electric Blue Jack Dempsey's are a naturally occurring coloration; their markings are bright blue (as opposed to the greenish hues seen on regular Jack Dempsey's) in color and beautifully iridescent. The background of the fish is darker in color and offers contrast with their many brilliant markings. The female's coloration may not be as vibrant.

They require a fairly spacious aquarium with a sandy bottom that is decorated with plenty of rocks and plants for them to hide among. They may dig at the roots of the plants, so plants should be well anchored down. They will be territorial and cannot be housed with fish small enough to fit in their mouths. While small, they may be fine with most tankmates despite their territorial nature, but may also become increasingly more aggressive with age. If keeping multiple Jack Dempsey's in one tank, they should be kept in a group rather than in pairs to reduce aggression. 

While they will eat omnivorously, their diet should primarily be carnivorous. They are not picky and will eat almost anything, whether it is live, frozen, pellet or flake food. Feeder fish can be fed but caution should be exercised since they can carry parasites or disease.