Hemichromis lifalili - Blood Jewel Cichlid

Fiery, jewel-like, and breathtakingly beautiful — the Blood Jewel Cichlid (Hemichromis lifalili) is one of the most vividly coloured freshwater fish in the world. Native to the rivers of Central Africa, this stunning cichlid displays an intense blood-red to crimson body adorned with iridescent turquoise-blue jewel spots that shimmer and sparkle under aquarium lighting — a truly extraordinary combination of colour and pattern.

Overview

Appearance

The Blood Jewel Cichlid displays an intense blood-red to crimson body colouration adorned with numerous iridescent turquoise-blue to green jewel spots scattered across the body and fins. The intensity of the red colouration and the brilliance of the jewel spots are most vivid in breeding condition, when the fish appears almost luminous with colour. The combination of deep red and sparkling turquoise creates one of the most extraordinary colour displays in the freshwater hobby.

Water Parameters & Tank Setup

• Temperature: 75 – 82°F (24 – 28°C)
• pH: 6.5 – 7.5
• General Hardness (GH): 5 – 15 dGH
• Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons for a pair; larger for a community
• Substrate: Sand or fine gravel
• Decor: Caves, driftwood, and hiding spots; flat rocks for spawning

Diet & Feeding

• Staple: High-quality cichlid pellets and flake food
• Treats: Frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, and other meaty foods
• Tip: Colour-enhancing foods rich in carotenoids help maintain the vivid red colouration

Feed 2–3 times daily.

Compatibility & Tank Mates

Best kept as a bonded pair in a species-only or carefully chosen tank. Extremely aggressive during breeding — will attack any tank mate. Suitable companions outside breeding include robust, similarly sized fish.

Breeding

Open spawners. Pairs form strong bonds and spawn on flat rocks or in caves. Both parents guard eggs and fry aggressively. Eggs hatch in 2–3 days and fry become free-swimming within a week.

The Blood Jewel Cichlid is one of the most vividly coloured freshwater fish in the world — fiery red, jewel-spotted, and endlessly captivating. A stunning species for the experienced cichlid enthusiast.