Jack Dempsey Care Guide
Rocio octofasciata
Stocking Calculator
Bioload Score
8200
AggressiveModerateFreshwater
- Max Size
- 25.0 cm / 10.0"
- Temperature
- 24–28°C (75–82°F)
- pH Range
- 6.5 – 8.0
- Min Tank Size
- 200L (53 gal)
- Min Group Size
- Can be kept alone
- Tank Level
- Bottom
- Origin
- Central America
- Temperament
- Aggressive
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Breeding Difficulty
- Moderate
Diet
Omnivorous, prefers a varied diet including high-quality flakes/pellets, live/frozen foods, and vegetable matter
Community Compatibility
Choose tank mates carefully, as Jack Dempseys can be aggressive. They are often kept with other large cichlids, but tank mates should be similar in size and aggression level. Provide ample hiding spots and territories to reduce aggression.
Good to Know
Jack Dempseys are aggressive and territorial fish. They can become territorial during breeding and may attack tank mates.
Gender Differences
Males generally have longer and more pointed dorsal and anal fins compared to females. Males may also develop a nuchal hump on the forehead.
Stock Jack Dempsey in Your Tank
Use our free stocking calculator to see if Jack Dempsey fits your aquarium