Can Jack Dempsey Cichlid Live With Ocellaris Clownfish?
Cannot coexist — Jack Dempsey Cichlid is freshwater, Ocellaris Clownfish is saltwater.
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Jack Dempsey Cichlid | Ocellaris Clownfish | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–86°F | 75–82°F | 75–82°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 6.5–8 | 8–8.4 | 8–8 ✓ |
| Temperament | aggressive | semi-aggressive | Aggression risk ✗ |
| Max Size | 10" | 3.5" | Similar ✓ |
| Min Tank Size | 55 gal | 20 gal | 55 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Carnivore | Omnivore | — |
| Care Level | intermediate | beginner | — |
Species Profiles
Jack Dempsey Cichlid
Rocio octofasciata
Named after the legendary boxer, Jack Dempsey cichlids are large, territorial Central American cichlids with iridescent blue-green spangles across their dark body. They are aggressive, intelligent, and interactive — many owners report them coming to the glass to greet them. The electric blue Jack Dempsey variant is significantly less aggressive and more colorful.
Full care guide →Ocellaris Clownfish
Amphiprion ocellaris
The ocellaris clownfish — star of Finding Nemo — is the most popular saltwater aquarium fish and one of the best choices for beginner reef keepers. Captive-bred specimens are hardy, readily available, and don't require an anemone host (though they will happily adopt one). They are one of the few marine fish that breed regularly in home aquariums.
Full care guide →