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Enhance your aquarium with the vibrant Hemichromis exsul! This hardy jewel cichlid boasts striking colors and lively behavior, perfect for intermediate aquarists.

Detailed Product Description

• Scientific Name: Hemichromis exsul
• Common Name: Jewel Cichlid
• Family: Cichlidae
• Origin: Native to East Africa, specifically Lake Edward and nearby river systems.

Appearance

• Hemichromis exsul is renowned for its shimmering red and green coloration, making it a standout in any aquarium.
• Their bodies are covered in iridescent spots that sparkle under good lighting, enhancing their jewel-like appeal.
• Adult sizes range between 4 to 5 inches (10–13 cm), making them suitable for medium-sized tanks.

Care and Habitat Requirements

Tank Setup

• Tank Size: A minimum of 30 gallons for a single pair; larger tanks (50+ gallons) are recommended for groups or community setups.
• Substrate: Sandy or fine gravel substrate mimics their natural habitat and allows for natural digging behavior.
• Decorations: Include plenty of hiding spots with rocks, driftwood, and caves to reduce stress and provide breeding areas.
• Plants: Hardy plants like Java Fern or Anubias can be used, but these cichlids may uproot softer plants.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: Keep water between 24–28°C (75–82°F) for optimal health.
• pH Range: Slightly acidic to neutral water, around 6.5–7.5.
• Hardness: Moderate water hardness of 8–15 dGH is ideal.
• Regular water changes (20–30% weekly) are necessary to maintain pristine conditions, as Hemichromis exsul are sensitive to poor water quality.

Behavior and Tank Mates

• Hemichromis exsul are semi-aggressive and territorial, especially during breeding.
• Ideal tank mates include:
  • Robust, similarly-sized fish like African cichlids, rainbowfish, or larger barbs.
  • Avoid small, delicate fish such as tetras or guppies, as they may be harassed or eaten.
• Provide ample territories to reduce aggression in community tanks.

Diet and Feeding Habits

• Omnivorous Diet: Hemichromis exsul thrive on a varied diet, including:
  • High-quality cichlid pellets or flakes.
  • Frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia for protein.
  • Occasional vegetables like blanched spinach or zucchini slices.
• Feed small portions 2–3 times daily, removing uneaten food to maintain water quality.

Breeding

• Hemichromis exsul are prolific breeders, often spawning in pairs.
• Breeding conditions:
  • Slightly warmer water (26–28°C) and a dedicated spawning site (flat rock or cave).
  • The female lays eggs, which both parents guard aggressively.
• Fry can be fed crushed flakes or baby brine shrimp once free-swimming.

Key Care Tips

• Provide a stress-free environment with plenty of hiding spots to minimize aggression.
• Monitor water quality diligently, as poor conditions can lead to stress and disease.
• Interact with them regularly to observe their lively behaviors, but avoid overcrowding to prevent territorial disputes.

Hemichromis exsul is a dazzling addition to aquariums, offering beauty and an engaging personality. With proper care, they’ll thrive and brighten your aquatic world!