Hemichromis Bimaculatus

Hemichromis bimaculatus

Like all Hemichromine species, H. bimaculatus are monogamous pair formers that will spawn on a flattened stone or leaf, although some will also utilise caves if these are offered. In most species both parents play a role in fry raising, although most duties associated with young are undertaken by the female. The majority of Hemichromines are undemanding with regard to water chemistry but prefer pHs between 6.0-7.0. They do not do as well in higher pHs and therefore should not be kept with cichlids of the rift lakes. Sexing most species is difficult, although the female grows to a slightly smaller size in some species.

Origin: Sierra Leone, Guinea and Liberia.
Maximum size: 11cm
Name derivation: bimaculatus - refers to the two spots on the flank of the fish, the first in the centre of the body, the second on caudal peduncle. This does not include the spot on the operculum.
Distinguishing Features: The true Hemichromis bimaculatus is a dark red-brown fish, it has very few irradescent spots on its flanks or gill covers and those that are visible are quite pale in colour. It has an elongated snout which gives it a more predatory appearance than other red jewel cichlids. The true H. bimaculatus is not, to my knowledge, available in Australia.

H. bimaculatus is often confused with H. guttatus, this can be seen in the Baensch Aquarium Atlas I, where the photo of H. bimaculaus is in fact, H. guttatus.