If the only thing a hobbyist cares for for be the coloration, we would hardly need other species than Jewel Cichlids. The „Neon“ is an artifical sport, most probably bred by crossing different species and selection. The blue iridescent spots, present in most species of Hemichromis, are much larger in the „Neon“ sport. With respect to the body shape, the „Neon“ is closest to H. guttatus.
But colour is not everything. Sadly all Jewel Cichlids have in common that it is impossible to know wether an individual will be peaceful or agggressive. Within one species both types of behaviour can appear. Some specimens are lambs, others are wolves.
However, the breathtaking splendid coloration and the really wonderful family life of these cichlids are worth the risk!
For our customers: the fish have code 537142 on our stocklist. Please note that we exclusively supply the wholesale trade.
Text & photos: Frank Schäfer
