Electric Blue Jack Dempsey

about 2” in size 

Electric Blue Jack Dempsey – Quick Care Guide

Scientific name: Rocio octofasciata (Electric Blue morph)
Temperament: Semi-aggressive (usually calmer than normal Jack Dempsey)
Difficulty: Intermediate

Size

• Adult size: 6–8 inches (15–20 cm)

Tank Requirements

• Minimum tank size:

  • 1 fish: 55 gallons

  • Pair or tankmates: 75+ gallons

• Tank setup:

  • Sand or fine gravel

  • Rocks, caves, driftwood

  • Plants optional (use hardy or floating plants)

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 78–86°F (25–30°C)

• pH: 6.5–7.5

• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

• Water quality: Very important (EBJDs are sensitive)

Diet

• Type: Omnivore

• Foods:

  • High-quality cichlid pellets

  • Frozen foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp)

  • Occasional live food

• Feeding: 1–2 times daily, don’t overfeed

Behavior & Compatibility

• Less aggressive than regular Jack Dempsey, but still territorial

• Best tankmates:

  • Similar-sized Central/South American cichlids

  • Large tetras, silver dollars, plecos

• Avoid small or fin-nipping fish

Special Notes

• Slower growth than normal Jack Dempseys

• More prone to stress and disease

• Clean water and stable parameters are key

• Stunning electric blue color, but color can fade if stressed