Jack Dempsey
Rocio octofasciata · Fish, Vertebrate, Cold-blooded, Wild/Aquarium pet
Animal Family
Cichlidae, order Cichliformes, class Actinopterygii
Animal Category
Freshwater Animal
Breed / Variety
Blue Dempsey variety
Conservation Status
Not evaluated on IUCN Red List, locally abundant in native range, widely bred in captivity
About This Creature
Robust, deep-bodied cichlid growing up to 8-10 inches in length with a dark background color overlaid with iridescent blue, green, and gold flecks
Physical Characteristics
Oval-shaped compressed body, large fleshy lips, spiny dorsal fin, rounded tail fin, dark coloration with neon blue-green spangles
Behavior & Temperament
Aggressive, highly territorial, carnivorous, solitary or in established pairs during breeding, diurnal
Habitat & Diet
Origin Region
Central America, specifically from southern Mexico to Honduras
Habitat
Freshwater rivers, streams, and warm, slow-moving tropical waters; Aquatic
Diet & Nutrition
Carnivore; feeds on insects, crustaceans, worms, and smaller fish in the wild
Lifespan & Health
10-15 years in captivity, prone to hole-in-the-head disease and Ich if water quality is poor
Special Characteristics
Named after the 1920s heavyweight boxing champion Jack Dempsey due to its aggressive and pugnacious fighting nature
Ecological Information
Functions as an apex freshwater predator in its local ecosystem, helping control invertebrate and small fish populations