I know Jewels are Africans (not Rift Lakes), but I had no where else to post this:

Is there a difference in species when the Jewels are a different colour, or is it just a colouration variant? I have a red Jewel, and two Blue-ish/Green Jewels. Will they cross breed?

Also how do you tell the sex of Jewels?

--Dan

It should go in the African cichlid section. Maybe the mods would care to move it?

I believe the variants you're talking about are simply color morphs and yes, I think they will cross-breed. Not sure on the sexing of Jewels. I had one at one time back a few years ago when I first started keeping cichlids. Mine was extremely timid and stayed hidden in the tanks decor all the time.
Good luck with yours!

Wow, mine are the opposite!

Thanks.

--Dan

i moved your thread over hear DannyBoy17.the african fans will be able to help you out with your questions about your jewels.:)

Thanks Cich1.

I was also wondering if they liked a lot of current? I was testing my old 402 powerhead in their tank, and they seemed to love it. I believe they are from streams, so that might answer my question.

--Dan

well theyre different hemichromis,not all jewels are the same,
i dont know the exact name of the normaljewel but i have a hemichromis lifalili(sp) which is a red forrest, so theyre different,its not just colour

DD

good posting

Lifalilis stay at 4'' right? And the Jewels grow to 6''?

--Dan

I have a crusty old Jewel, and he's about 5-6 inches ;)

The genus hemichromis has for years, been one of the most confusing for hobbyiests and scientists alike. The true "Red Jewel" has always been what's now known as H. guttatus, yet it is still usually incorrectly labeled as H. bimaculatus. The true bimaculatus has a more elongated snout, and is lacking the blue spangles. I wonder if modern aquarium strains are not hybrids of H. guttatus, lifalili, and cristatus, as all three are difficult to tell apart. The "Neon" or "turquoise" jewels are not a natural species as they were created in the aquarium through selective breeding.

blue jewels are amazing cichlids they pack a pretty mean punch when they come up to some of my larger fish!!!

whats great about mine is that shes pretty semi agressive and knows when to quick

thats why shes eligable to be in my 55 gallon with my oscars and my dempsey!!!