Can Jack Dempsey Cichlid Live With Sparkling Gourami?
❌Not Compatible
Jack Dempsey Cichlid is aggressive and will likely attack or stress tank mates.
Ad
Parameter Comparison
| Parameter | Jack Dempsey Cichlid | Sparkling Gourami | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–86°F | 76–82°F | 76–82°F ✓ |
| pH Range | 6.5–8 | 6–7.5 | 6.5–7.5 ✓ |
| Temperament | aggressive | peaceful | Aggression risk ✗ |
| Max Size | 10" | 1.5" | Size mismatch ✗ |
| Min Tank Size | 55 gal | 10 gal | 55 gal minimum together |
| Diet | Carnivore | Micro-carnivore | — |
| Care Level | intermediate | intermediate | — |
Species Profiles
Jack Dempsey Cichlid
Rocio octofasciata
intermediateaggressive55+ gal
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 →Sparkling Gourami
Trichopsis pumila
intermediatepeaceful10+ gal
The Sparkling Gourami (Trichopsis pumila) is a intermediate-level freshwater fish growing to 1.5 inches. Peaceful temperament, minimum 10 gallon tank.
Full care guide →Other Compatible Tank Mates
For Jack Dempsey Cichlid:
For Sparkling Gourami:
Ad