Banded jewel cichlid - Hemichromis elongatus

Scientific name: Hemichromis elongatus

Common name: Banded jewel cichlid

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 13 - 17 cm (5.12 - 6.69 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 7 - 8.1

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 7 - 20°N (125 - 357.14ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 22 - 25 °C (71.6 - 77°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: Africa

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: aggressive to smaller

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Food and feeding

Banded jewel cichlids are classed as a predator fish; they can be fed on shrimps, mysis, chopped earthworms, and feeder fish.

Origin

Africa; Banded jewel cichlids are to be found in the waterways from Guinea to Angola.

Sexing

Females tend to be smaller than the males and have more rounded finnage. The males will have extended dorsal and anal fins with a concave appearance to the head.

Breeding

Add some flat rocks to the tank and condition the parents on meaty foods. The spawning site will be cleaned by both parents and up to 800 eggs can be laid in one batch. The eggs should hatch after 48 hours and then the brood will be moved to pre-dug pits in the substrate. After a few more days the fry should be free swimming and can be fed on newly hatched brine shrimp.

Lifespan

The expected life span for Hemichromis elongatus is 6-7 years.

Short description

Hemichromis elongatus is not for a novice fish keeper; it is one of the most aggressive cichlids available to buy and is an avid predator. Add rocks or wood to the tank to create hiding places and subdue the lighting with floating plants. Banded jewel cichlids need a lot of space, otherwise they’ll be territorial and aggressive.

Pictures

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.