All our fish, shrimp and corals are bagged with fresh oxygen as well as a heat pack in winter.
When ordering livestock please select the box size and add it to your cart for accurate overnight (1-2 days) shipping costs. A small box can take 1-2 bags and a medium box 6 bags. One bag fits max 10 small (1-3cm) fish or max 2 medium (3-5cm) fish or max 1 large (>5cm) fish.
ONE SPECIES PER BAG. Eg: One bag of 10 neon tetra.
Electric Blue Jack Dempsey (Cichlasoma octofasciatum "Electric Blue")
Description:
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Appearance:
- Body: Medium-sized and robust with a slightly elongated and compressed body. Known for their striking coloration and distinct body shape.
- Color: Vibrant electric blue body with shimmering scales. They often have a bright blue coloration with contrasting black markings. The intensity of the blue can vary, and some individuals may display hints of turquoise or green.
- Size: Typically grows to 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) in length, though in optimal conditions they can reach up to 10 inches (25 cm).
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Behavior:
- Activity: Active and assertive. They are known for their dynamic and sometimes aggressive behavior, especially in smaller spaces.
- Social Structure: Territorial and can be quite aggressive, especially during breeding. Best kept with other robust species or in a species-specific tank.
Care Requirements:
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Tank Size:
- Minimum of 55 gallons (208 liters); larger tanks are preferred to provide ample space for swimming and to reduce territorial disputes.
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Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C).
- pH: 7.0-8.0.
- Hardness: Moderately hard to hard water. They prefer slightly alkaline conditions with high mineral content.
- Filtration: Strong filtration is necessary to manage their high waste output. A filter with a high flow rate is suitable, but ensure the current is not too strong for the fish.
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Tank Setup:
- Substrate: Sand or fine gravel is ideal. They may dig or shift the substrate around.
- Aquascaping: Include plenty of hiding spots and structures such as rocks, driftwood, and caves. Providing ample cover and territories is important to reduce aggression and stress.
- Lighting: Standard aquarium lighting is sufficient. They benefit from having shaded areas and hiding spots to mimic their natural habitat.
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Diet:
- Primary Food: Omnivorous; feed a varied diet including high-quality cichlid pellets, flakes, and live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
- Supplemental Food: Offer occasional treats like blanched vegetables (e.g., zucchini, spinach) to ensure a balanced diet.
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Behavioral Considerations:
- Compatibility: Territorial and can be aggressive. Best kept with other robust, non-aggressive fish or in a species-specific tank. Avoid keeping with smaller or more peaceful species that may be bullied or stressed.
- Social Behavior: Can be kept in pairs or small groups, but provide ample space and hiding spots. Males can be particularly aggressive towards each other and other males, especially during breeding.
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Tank Maintenance:
- Water Changes: Perform regular water changes (20-30% weekly) to maintain water quality and prevent the buildup of toxins.
- Cleaning: Regularly clean the tank and remove any uneaten food or waste. Ensure the filtration system is functioning effectively and provides adequate water circulation.
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Health Care:
- Observation: Monitor for signs of stress or illness, such as changes in behavior, loss of appetite, or visible symptoms like discoloration or fin damage.
- Treatment: Maintain optimal water conditions and consult an aquarium professional if any health issues arise. Address any signs of disease or stress promptly to ensure the health of your fish.