🐟 Jack Dempsey Cichlid Care Guide (Rocio octofasciata)
🌟 Overview The Jack Dempsey Cichlid (Rocio octofasciata) is a striking and hardy freshwater fish named after the famous boxer due to its bold personality and aggressive behavior. Known for its iridescent blue-green scales and territorial nature, this cichlid is popular with intermediate to advanced aquarists. Jack Dempseys thrive in larger aquariums with strong filtration, sturdy décor, and carefully chosen tank mates.
🔑 Quick Facts
- Scientific Name: Rocio octofasciata
- Common Name: Jack Dempsey Cichlid
- Origin: Central America (Mexico to Honduras)
- Size: 8–10 inches (20–25 cm)
- Lifespan: 8–12 years
- Temperament: Aggressive, territorial
- Care Level: Moderate to Advanced
🏠 Tank Requirements
- Minimum Tank Size: 55 gallons (larger for pairs or community setups)
- Water Temperature: 72–86°F (22–30°C)
- pH: 6.5–7.5
- Hardness: 8–12 dGH
- Substrate: Sand or fine gravel with rocks and driftwood for hiding
- Aquascape: Provide caves and sturdy décor; avoid delicate plants as they may dig
🍽️ Diet
Jack Dempseys are omnivores and thrive on a varied diet:
- High-quality cichlid pellets & flakes
- Frozen/live foods: bloodworms, brine shrimp, earthworms, krill
- Occasional vegetables: peas, zucchini, spinach
- Protein-rich foods enhance coloration and growth
🧑🤝🧑 Tank Mates
- Best kept with other large, robust fish such as oscars, firemouth cichlids, green terrors, and plecos
- Avoid small or delicate species (tetras, guppies, shrimp) as they may be eaten
- Territorial, especially when breeding—provide ample space and line-of-sight breaks
🧠 Behavior & Tips
- Jack Dempseys are aggressive and best suited for semi-aggressive to aggressive cichlid tanks
- Males grow larger and display brighter colors, especially during breeding
- Require strong filtration due to heavy bioload
- Can be kept as singles, pairs, or in carefully managed communities
❓ FAQ
Q: How big do Jack Dempseys get?
A: Adults typically reach 8–10 inches, with some growing larger in spacious tanks.
Q: Are Jack Dempseys beginner-friendly?
A: They are hardy but aggressive—better for aquarists with some cichlid experience.
Q: Can Jack Dempseys live with other fish?
A: Yes, but only with larger, equally robust tank mates in a big aquarium.
Q: How long do Jack Dempseys live?
A: With proper care, they can live 8–12 years.
