Cichlasoma octofasciatum (Jack Dempsey)
Photo by Adam Buschbacher 
Family: Cichlidae
Scientific name: Cichlasoma octofasciatum
Common name: Jack Dempsey
Synonyms: Cichlasoma hedricki, Cichlasoma biocellatum, Heros octofasciatus, Nandopsis octofasciatus
Origin: North and Central America: Southern Mexico, Guatemala, Yucatan and Honduras in bogs and slow-moving water.
Adult size: 25cm
Lifespan: 15 years
Sex: The male has pointed dorsal and anal fins.
Minimum aquarium size: 100cm
Aquarium decor: Rocks, driftwood, sand, plants
Temperature: 22-30°C
Water chemistry: pH 6.5-7. Hardness 8-12°dGH
Diet: Omnivore; Live, frozen, flake, tablet, vegetable supplement
Swimming level: Top, middle, bottom
Compatibility: Very aggressive.
Comments: Jack Dempseys burrow and eat plants. Provide a deep layer of sandy substrate and caves among rocks and /or wood for them to hide in.
