Electric Blue Jack Dempsey

⚫ Electric Blue Jack Dempsey (Rocio octofasciata) Care Guide

Also known as the EBJD

The Electric Blue Jack Dempsey is a selectively bred color variant of the Jack Dempsey cichlid, prized for its intense electric-blue coloration and shimmering scales. While generally less aggressive than the wild-type form, it still displays classic cichlid personality and requires thoughtful tank planning.

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Tank Requirements

Minimum Tank Size:

• Single adult: 200 litres

• Pair: 300+ litres

Temperature: 24–28°C

pH: 6.5–7.8

GH: 6–15

KH: 4–10

TDS: 150–300 ppm

They prefer warm, clean water with strong filtration and excellent oxygenation. Stable parameters are especially important, as this strain can be more sensitive than standard Jack Dempseys.

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Habitat Setup

Recreate their Central American river environment with:

• Sand or fine gravel substrate

• Rocks, caves, and driftwood for shelter and territory

• Open swimming space

• Moderate water flow

Plants may be uprooted; hardy species attached to décor or artificial plants are recommended.

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️ Feeding

Electric Blue Jack Dempseys are omnivorous with carnivorous tendencies:

• High-quality cichlid pellets

• Frozen foods (krill, shrimp, bloodworms, mussels)

• Occasional live foods from safe sources

Feed 1–2 times daily, avoiding overfeeding to maintain water quality and coloration.

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Tank Mates

Moderately aggressive and territorial, especially during breeding.

Suitable tank mates:

• Other medium to large Central American cichlids

• Large barbs or robust schooling fish

• Large catfish such as Plecos

Avoid:

• Small, peaceful fish

• Highly aggressive cichlids

• Fin-nippers

⚠️ Behavioral Note: Electric Blue Jack Dempseys are typically less aggressive than standard Jack Dempseys, but individual temperament varies.

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Breeding

Breeding is possible but more challenging than with the standard form.

• Substrate spawners

• Parents guard eggs and fry

• Fry are sensitive and require excellent water quality

Due to genetic sensitivity, many breeders selectively pair EBJDs with standard Jack Dempseys to improve fry viability.

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Sexing / Identification

Males:

• Larger size

• Longer dorsal and anal fins

• More intense coloration

Females:

• Smaller

• Rounder body shape

• Shorter fins

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Interesting Fact

The Electric Blue Jack Dempsey is not found in the wild — its striking color is the result of selective breeding, making it one of the most visually dramatic cichlid variants available to aquarists.

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Reference: Bubbly Fish – Creating underwater wonders