Jack DempseyJack Dempsey (Rocio octofasciata) is the standard form — a robust, powerful cichlid with a dark body covered in vivid iridescent blue-green and gold scale spots that intensify dramatically in adult males. Named for the legendary heavyweight boxing champion for its aggressive personality.Feeding & Care Tip: Hikari Cichlid Bio-Gold makes an excellent primary staple — Hikari Micro Pellets as backup. Supplement 2–3× per week with Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms or Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Brine Shrimp. Feed 2–3 times daily in amounts consumed within a few minutes.Native to Mexico and Central America — Atlantic slope river drainages. Central American cichlids generally prefer hard, alkaline water — quite different from the soft acidic conditions preferred by most South American cichlids.Keep as a bonded pair or with other large, similarly aggressive Central American cichlids. Flat surface spawners with devoted biparental care.Central American cichlids are rewarding and long-lived aquarium residents for experienced cichlid keepers.Care & Ideal Parameters Difficulty Moderate — Advanced Temperament Aggressive — cichlid specialist Typical Adult Size 10.0 inches (25 cm) Min. Group Size Bonded pair — species or Central American community Ideal Temp 75–82°F (24–28°C) Ideal pH 7.0–8.0 Ideal GH 8–20 dGH Ideal KH 4–12 dKH Staple Food Hikari Cichlid Bio-Gold; Hikari Micro Pellets Treat / Supplement Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Bloodworms; Hikari Frozen or Freeze-Dried Brine Shrimp Origin Mexico and Central America — Atlantic slope river drainages Notes Named for heavyweight boxer Jack Dempsey. Bold iridescent spot pattern. More aggressive than Electric Blue form. 75+ gallon minimum.
