Hemichromis sp. "Guinea II" is a rare geographical form of Hemichromis from Guinea. Often called the "jewel cichlid", it is distinguished by its **intense red coat dotted with turquoise spots**, which becomes spectacular as an adult or during the breeding season.

Behaviour & maintenance

This cichlid is :

• Territorial and sometimes aggressive, especially in pairs or when laying eggs
• Very active: explores and defends its territory
• Ideal in special tanks or with robust fish

Diet

Opportunistic omnivore:

• Floating or sinking granules rich in protein
• Artemia, krill, mud worms, mysis
• Plant supplements: spirulina, poached vegetables

Water quality

• Temperature: 24 - 28°C
• pH: 6.0 - 7.5
• GH: 5 - 15 °dGH
• KH: 3 - 8 °KH
• Conductivity: 150 - 300 µS

This cichlid is robust and tolerant, but prefers well-filtered, slightly acidic, clean water.

Decor & environment

What to bring :

• Sand or fine gravel
• Rocks, roots, coconuts to create hiding places
• Hardy plants only (e.g. Anubias) or artificial plants

Maintenance sheet

Aquabota tip

Provide visual barriers (stones, roots) to limit territorial pressure. A stable pair of Hemichromis can be very interesting to observe, especially during reproduction.