Jack Dempsey
Jack Dempsey
Jack 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. |
