Fin's Fish Guide
The Banded jewelfish (Hemichromis elongatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 19 cm.
Fresh and brackish water of West and Central Africa, in rivers, lakes, swamps and lagoons with abundant aquatic plants.
Description
The banded jewelfish is a larger relative of the jewel cichlid in the family Cichlidae reaching about 19 cm. The deep, yellow-green body bears several large, dark blotches on the flank and shiny blue-green spots; in the breeding season the colours intensify. The species comes from the fresh and brackish water of West and Central Africa and lives in rivers, lakes, swamps and lagoons with abundant water plants. As a predator it hunts insects, crustaceans, worms and small fish. It is a substrate brooder: the pair cleans a stone and both parents fiercely guard the eggs and young. Because of its size and fierce territoriality it is a challenging aquarium fish.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Banded jewelfish?
The Banded jewelfish has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a spots pattern. Larger jewel cichlid with a few large, dark blotches on the flank; fiercely territorial and a dedicated parent.
Where does the Banded jewelfish live?
The Banded jewelfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around algae or seagrass beds. Fresh and brackish water of West and Central Africa, in rivers, lakes, swamps and lagoons with abundant aquatic plants.
How big does the Banded jewelfish get?
The Banded jewelfish grows to a maximum of about 19 cm.
Is the Banded jewelfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Banded jewelfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Banded jewelfish edible?
The Banded jewelfish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hemichromis
More from the family Cichlidae
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Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Banded jewelfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.