Jack Dempsey
Rocio octofasciata
What you need to keep a Jack Dempsey
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pH
6.5–8
Temperature
24–30 °C
Where to buy
Compare prices from SA aquarium shops listing Jack Dempsey.
What Jack Dempsey costs in South Africa
3 price points from 2 shops over 90 days
R200
cheapest of 1 shop today
SA median R250 across 2 shops over the last 90 days.
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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
Care guide
Keeping Jack Dempsey healthy in a South African setup.
Tank setup
Size the aquarium to Jack Dempsey's adult size and activity level. Use robust décor and sight breaks so each fish can hold its own space.
Water parameters
Keep pH 6.5–8 and 24–30°C. Stable parameters matter more than chasing perfect numbers; acclimate new arrivals slowly.
Feeding
Carnivore. Feed small amounts it clears in a couple of minutes, and vary the diet.
Behaviour
Aggressive. Watch it at feeding time and at lights-out to see its real temperament in your tank.
Tankmates
Choose robust tankmates of similar size, and nothing small enough to be eaten. Add Jack Dempsey last so territories reset.
Breeding
Breeding success with Jack Dempsey depends on the line and water chemistry; ask your shop about proven pairs.
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.
10% off your first order, no code, at checkout
Availability confirmed with the distributor before dispatch · free delivery over r750
Community photos
From hobbyists across SA.
Market intelligence
Price trends and buyer demand — data only FishHub tracks.
Price history — last 90 days
SA price range this month: R115–115 · Average: R115
This data is unique to FishHub
Demand by province
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