Banded Jewelfish Care Guide
Hemichromis fasciatus is a large predatory African jewel cichlid with five black side blotches, reaching over 25 cm and requiring a large, robust setup.
Overview
Hemichromis fasciatus, the banded jewelfish, is one of the larger members of the genus, described by Peters in 1857. FishBase lists a standard length up to 21 cm and a maximum total length of about 26.5 cm. The body is yellow-green with a bronze iridescence and bears five large, glossy black blotches along the flank; older fish develop reddish dots on the scales. The mouth is large and wide.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Hemichromis
- Scientific name: Hemichromis fasciatus
- Authority: Peters, 1857
Habitat
The species is widespread across West Africa (from the Senegal to Chad basins and coastal rivers), the Nile basin and the upper Zambezi. It is a freshwater, benthopelagic fish of forest and savannah waters, including littoral riverine habitats and permanent floodplain lagoons with clear water. It has been introduced to a thermally heated stream in Austria.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 400 L
- Temperature: 24-28 °C (75-82 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.8
- GH: 2-12 °dGH
- Lifespan: 8-12 years
- Provide substantial cover and robust decor
Diet
Hemichromis fasciatus is a carnivore. FishBase reports that it feeds on shrimps, small fishes and insects. In the aquarium it accepts meaty foods; tankmates small enough to be swallowed will be treated as prey.
Compatibility
The species is highly aggressive and territorial, controlling large areas. Wikipedia notes that large tanks with substantial cover are required, typically housing one adult, or several juveniles that must be separated as they grow to prevent fatal conflicts. It should only be combined with large, robust tankmates.
Breeding
It is a pair-bonding substrate spawner. According to FishBase the pair nests and spawns on a substrate and provides parental care lasting roughly four to eight weeks.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2019).