Electric Blue Jack Dempsey - Rocio octofasciata cf : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Electric Blue Jack Dempsey (Rocio octofasciata cf) is a mesmerizing colour morph of the Jack Dempsey Central American Cichlid, making it one of the most sought-after freshwater aquarium fish. Its vivid blue colouration sets it apart from its standard-coloured counterparts. Despite its stunning appearance, the Electric Blue Jack Dempsey is relatively small in size compared to its natural variant. These peaceful Cichlids thrive in large aquariums with like-sized, calm tank mates. They are not as aggressive as other Cichlid species and prefer being housed individually or in small groups with only a few other tankmates. However, when breeding, they become fiercely territorial and will defend their nesting sites.
The Electric Blue Jack Dempsey requires a spacious aquarium of at least 190 litres, preferably larger. If live plants are a must-have in your aquarium, choose rooted plants that can withstand repositioning or go for thicker-leaved species. These fish display a preference for a tank substrate consisting of fine sand, which allows for burrowing activities and the creation of nests. In addition, it is imperative to provide ample hiding opportunities through the strategic arrangement of rocks and wood within the aquarium. The inclusion of floating plants as a canopy contributes to a more comprehensive and accommodating habitat for these aquatic inhabitants.
The Electric Blue Jack Dempsey's stocky body contrasts its brilliant blue colouration with iridescent metallic blue dots and broken lines standing out against the dark brown background. In conclusion, the Electric Blue Jack Dempsey Cichlid is a stunning addition to any aquarium. With its peaceful demeanour and striking colours, it will surely be the centrepiece of your aquatic display.
Electric Blue Jack Dempsey Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing between the genders of Electric Blue Jack Dempsey is a relatively straightforward process. Several physical characteristics can differentiate males and females. Notably, males possess a distinctive round black spot at the centre of their bodies and on the base of their tails. They also have elongated and pointed anal and dorsal fins. In contrast, females display fewer dots, shorter, rounded fins, and a more gravid appearance when ready to breed. These gender differences are valuable to fish enthusiasts and breeders, as they provide an effective means of distinguishing between males and females, facilitating their management and reproduction.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Rocio octofasciata cf |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1903 |
| Other Names | Blue Dempsey, Electric Blue Dempsey, Neon Blue Dempsey, BJD, EBJD |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cichliformes |
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Genus | Cichlasoma |
| Origins | Mexico , Guatemala , Honduras |
| Max Size | 20 cm |
| Temperament | Semi-Aggressive |
| Aquarium Level | All Levels |
| Difficulty | Beginner - Intermediate |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | Loners |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg Depositor |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 15 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.0 - 7.0 |
| GH | 8 - 12 |
| ℉ | 72 - 86 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 22 - 30 |
Natural Habitat
The Electric Blue Jack Dempsey represents a naturally occurring colour variant within the Jack Dempsey species, which has also been selectively bred in captivity. Historically, fry exhibiting this distinctive bluish hue were occasionally perceived as runts and subsequently disregarded. However, contemporary practices have evolved, with a noteworthy shift in perception. Presently, fry showcasing the Electric Blue colouration are not only highly valued but often command premium prices upon reaching maturity.
These Cichlids can be found in various parts of the world, including Southern Mexico, Yucatan, Central and North America, as well as Guatemala and Honduras. Interestingly, wild populations have also been discovered in places as far-flung as Australia, the USA, and Thailand. These captivating fish are known for their ability to thrive in a range of aquatic environments, including warm, slightly acidic, slow-moving rivers, canals, lakes, bogs, and swampy waters. However, they typically inhabit weedy areas with sandy or muddy substrates, often featuring rocks and debris that serve as prime hiding spots.
Breeding
The Electric Blue Jack Dempsey is widely recognized as one of the more easily spawned cichlid species. However, as they pair up, these fish may exhibit intolerance and territoriality, resulting in biting behaviour. As egg layers, Dempsey Cichlids are known to construct a nest in the shape of a crater.
The female can lay anywhere from 500 to 800 eggs in a single spawning, which is typically applied on meticulously cleaned rocks. Following a gestation period of roughly three days, the eggs will hatch, and the parents will keep the offspring in carefully constructed pits.
Both the male and female will diligently guard the eggs until they become free-swimming. At this point, the parents will begin to crush food and release it for the young to consume, ultimately helping them reach a size where they can feed themselves.
Diet & Feeding
The Electric Blue Jack Dempsey is an omnivorous Cichlid species that exhibits diverse feeding habits, consuming various types of food ranging from dried, pelleted, live, and frozen forms such as flakes, bloodworms, brine shrimp, and insects such as grasshoppers, crickets, and fruit flies. To maintain optimal health, feeding adult Electric Blue Jack Dempseys 1 to 2 times daily is recommended, ensuring that the quantity offered is commensurate with their consumption within a two-minute feeding window. Conversely, juvenile Electric Blue Jack Dempseys should be fed more frequently to facilitate their growth and development.
