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)

014

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

Overview

The Banded Jewel Cichlid (Hemichromis elongatus) is a striking freshwater fish known for its vivid colors and bold personality. Native to Africa, these cichlids are popular among experienced aquarists due to their territorial nature and predatory instincts. While beautiful, their aggressive behavior makes them unsuitable for community tanks with smaller or more peaceful species.

Origin and Natural Habitat

Native to the waterways of West and Central Africa, Hemichromis elongatus can be found from Guinea to Angola. They thrive in slow-moving rivers, streams, and floodplains, where they inhabit areas rich in submerged vegetation and rocky substrates.

Appearance and Size

Banded Jewel Cichlids are easily recognized by their elongated bodies and vivid coloration, featuring a blend of deep reds and iridescent blue spots with distinct banding patterns. In aquariums, they typically grow between 13 to 17 cm (5.12 to 6.69 inches).

Tank Requirements

• Tank Size: A minimum of 200 liters (50 gallons) is recommended to accommodate their territorial nature.
• Water Parameters:
• pH: 7.0 - 8.1
• Water Hardness: 7 - 20°N (125 - 357 ppm)
• Temperature: 22 - 25°C (71.6 - 77°F)
• Tank Setup: Include plenty of rocks, driftwood, and caves to create hiding spots and territories. Floating plants can help subdue lighting, making the fish feel more secure.

Temperament and Tank Mates

Banded Jewel Cichlids are peaceful towards their own kind when provided with ample space but are aggressive toward smaller or more docile fish species. They are best kept either in a species-specific tank or with similarly sized, robust tank mates like larger cichlids or catfish. Avoid housing them with small, delicate, or slow-moving fish.

Feeding and Diet

As predatory fish, Banded Jewel Cichlids require a protein-rich diet. Offer a variety of foods, including:

• Live or frozen shrimp, mysis shrimp, and chopped earthworms
• Feeder fish (use with caution to avoid introducing diseases)
• High-quality cichlid pellets and occasional plant-based foods to balance their diet

Sexing

Sexing Hemichromis elongatus can be done by observing physical differences:

• Males: Typically larger with elongated dorsal and anal fins. Their heads often have a concave shape.
• Females: Smaller with more rounded fins and less pronounced head shape.

Breeding

Breeding Banded Jewel Cichlids can be rewarding but requires careful planning due to their aggressive nature during spawning:

• Provide flat rocks or broad leaves as spawning sites.
• Condition the breeding pair with high-protein foods.
• Both parents will clean the chosen site before laying up to 800 eggs.
• The eggs hatch within 48 hours, and the fry are moved to pits dug in the substrate.
• Once free-swimming, feed the fry with newly hatched brine shrimp.

Lifespan

With proper care, Banded Jewel Cichlids can live up to 6-7 years in a well-maintained aquarium environment.

Conclusion

Hemichromis elongatus is a captivating yet challenging species best suited for experienced aquarists. Their vibrant colors and fascinating behaviors make them a standout in any aquarium, but their territorial aggression means they need careful handling and thoughtful tank planning. With the right environment and care, these stunning fish can be a rewarding addition to your aquarium.

Pictures

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