Blood Jewel Cichlid

To protect our animals and to ensure they get to our customers healthy and thriving, we will only ship our orders via UPS Next Day Air.

The Blood Jewel Cichlid (a variant of the Jewel Cichlid, Hemichromis lifalili) is a stunning freshwater fish known for its intense red coloration and iridescent blue-green spots. Here’s a quick rundown if you're thinking of keeping or selling them at Tropical Treasures:

Shipped around 2" and unsexed

Fish may not be identical to the pictures you see, most are the parents as what they will grow up to resemble. 

🌟 Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Hemichromis lifalili

• Common Name: Blood Jewel Cichlid, Red Jewel Cichlid

• Origin: Central Africa, mainly Congo River basin

• Size: Up to 5 inches (13 cm)

• Lifespan: 5–7 years with proper care

• Temperament: Aggressive, especially during breeding

• Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons for a pair

🐟 Care Requirements

• Water Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)

• pH: 6.5–7.5

• Hardness: 4–15 dGH

• Diet: Omnivorous – accepts flakes, pellets, frozen/live food (bloodworms, brine shrimp, etc.)

🧠 Behavior & Tank Mates

• Territorial: Especially during breeding. Best kept with other semi-aggressive or similarly sized cichlids if in a larger tank.

• Breeding: Relatively easy. They are substrate spawners and become very protective of their fry.

• Tank Mates: Avoid housing with peaceful or small fish. Good tankmates might include other robust cichlids, catfish like Synodontis, or large barbs.

🌱 Aquascaping Tips

• Provide hiding spots with rocks, driftwood, and caves

• Use hardy plants (like Anubias or Java fern), or be prepared for some uprooting behavior