Banded Jewel Cichlid (Hemichromis fasciatus) is an intermediate-level freshwater fish that needs at least 75 gallons and 73-82°F. A large, predatory West African cichlid that is much bigger and tougher than the red jewel cichlid. It has a banded pattern, grows to about a foot and eats any fish that fits in its mouth, so it needs a big tank with large, sturdy tankmates or a species setup.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Hemichromis fasciatus |
|---|---|
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Origin | West and Central Africa |
| Adult size | 10-12 in |
| Minimum tank | 75 gallons |
| Temperature | 73-82°F |
| pH | 6.5-7.8 |
| Temperament | Aggressive predator |
| Social behavior | Single, or a bonded pair in a large tank |
| Swim level | Bottom to mid |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Diet | Carnivore: cichlid pellets, whole foods, frozen fish and shrimp, earthworms |
| Typical lifespan | 8-10 years |
Quick tips
- Plan for 75 gallons or more.
- Do not keep with small fish.
- Use a strong lid and filtration; it is a messy eater.
San Diego water
Tolerates San Diego's hard, alkaline tap water (pH roughly 7.6-8.6) with slow acclimation and a conditioner that handles chloramine. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi