Electric Blue Jack Dempsey (Rocio octofasciata) Import

The Electric Blue Jack Dempsey is a striking freshwater fish known for its vivid, iridescent blue coloration and peaceful temperament compared to its standard counterpart. Native to Central America, this selectively bred variation of Rocio octofasciata has become a favorite among aquarists for its beauty and manageable aggression, making it a standout addition to medium or large aquariums.

Natural Habitat

In the wild, Rocio octofasciata is found in slow-moving rivers, lakes, and muddy-bottomed canals in Central America. These environments feature warm water, soft or sandy substrates, and plenty of submerged vegetation or rocky cover.

Aquarium Care

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 200 liters for a single adult; larger tanks are recommended for pairs or community setups.
• Water Temperature: 24–28°C.
• pH Range: 6.5–7.5.
• Water Hardness: 6–20 dGH (soft to moderately hard water).
• Filtration: Strong and efficient filtration is necessary to handle their waste and maintain pristine water quality.

Aquascaping

• Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel is preferred.
• Decor: Provide caves, rocks, and driftwood for hiding spots and territorial boundaries.
• Plants: Hardy plants like Anubias, Java Fern, or Vallisneria are recommended, though some individuals may uproot vegetation.
• Lighting: Moderate lighting to enhance their vibrant blue coloration.

Tank Mates

• Electric Blue Jack Dempseys are less aggressive than standard Jack Dempseys but may still display territorial behavior. Suitable tank mates include:
  • Other large, peaceful cichlids like Severums or Firemouths.
  • Non-aggressive fish such as silver dollars or larger tetras.
  • Bottom-dwellers like plecos or larger loaches.
• Avoid small or delicate fish that may be seen as food or provoke aggression.

Feeding

Electric Blue Jack Dempseys are omnivorous and require a balanced diet:

• Staple Foods: High-quality cichlid pellets or granules.
• Protein: Live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and krill.
• Vegetable Matter: Blanched zucchini, spinach, or spirulina-based pellets for added nutrition.
  Feed 1–2 times daily in portions that can be consumed within a few minutes.

Breeding

Breeding Electric Blue Jack Dempseys can be rewarding but requires specific conditions and care.

Sexing

• Males: Larger, with elongated dorsal and anal fins.
• Females: Slightly smaller, with more rounded fins and less vibrant coloration.

Breeding Tank Setup

• Use a dedicated breeding tank of at least 150 liters with stable conditions:
  • Temperature: 26–28°C.
  • pH: 6.5–7.0.
• Include flat rocks or slate for spawning sites and plenty of hiding spaces for the female.

Spawning Process

1. Condition the pair with a high-protein diet to encourage spawning.
2. The female lays eggs on a flat surface, which the male fertilizes.
3. Both parents guard the eggs and fry, displaying strong parental instincts.
4. Eggs hatch in 3–5 days, and fry become free-swimming after about a week.

Fry Care

• Feed fry infusoria or liquid fry food initially, transitioning to baby brine shrimp or finely crushed flakes as they grow.
• Remove the parents if aggression becomes an issue.

Key Notes

• Behavior: Electric Blue Jack Dempseys are generally less aggressive than their standard counterparts but may still exhibit territorial behavior, especially during breeding.
• Water Quality: Maintain excellent water conditions with regular water changes, as poor quality can lead to health issues.
• Health: Watch for common diseases like ich, bacterial infections, or bloating; a balanced diet and clean water are critical for preventing illness.

The Electric Blue Jack Dempsey is a visually stunning and relatively peaceful cichlid that adds a vibrant pop of color and personality to medium or large aquariums. Its manageable temperament and hardy nature make it a favorite for aquarists seeking a showpiece fish with minimal aggression.