Tank setup
Size the aquarium to Jack Dempsey's adult size and activity level. Match décor to natural behaviour — plants, rockwork, or open swimming room as needed.
Where to buy
Compare prices from SA aquarium shops listing Jack Dempsey.
Avg. price
R233
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Overview
What to know before you buy.
Named after the famous boxer for its aggressive nature and powerful appearance, the Jack Dempsey is a classic cichlid. It has a dark body covered in brilliant metallic blue and green spangles. They require a large tank with plenty of hiding spots among rocks and driftwood to establish territories.
Key traits
aggressive
territorial
large
moderate
carnivore
Compatibility
Select a tank to see how this species fits.
Care guide
Everything you need to keep Jack Dempsey healthy in a South African setup.
Water parameters
Keep pH 6.5–8 and 24–30°C. Stable parameters matter more than chasing perfect numbers — acclimate new arrivals slowly.
Feeding
Jack Dempsey is an omnivore. Feed a varied diet appropriate for freshwater fish — quality flakes, pellets, or frozen foods sized to the mouth.
Behaviour
Jack Dempsey is generally peaceful. Observe during feeding and at lights-out for true temperament.
Tankmates
Pair with similarly sized peaceful tankmates in freshwater fish. Avoid fin-nippers or species that outgrow this fish.
Breeding
Breeding notes for Jack Dempsey vary by line and water chemistry — ask your local shop about proven pairs in SA.
Settling this fish in?
Condition the tap water, seed the filter, test through the first weeks — most early losses trace back to one of those.
3-PIECE KIT
Availability confirmed with the distributor before dispatch · free delivery over r750
Community photos
From hobbyists across SA.
Photo by FishHubAdmin
Market intelligence
Price trends and buyer demand — data only FishHub tracks.
Price history — last 90 days
SA price range this month: R115–250 · Average: R123
This data is unique to FishHub
Demand by province
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