Tropical Fish Aquarist - January 14, 2026

Optimal oxygen levels are essential for the health and vibrancy of your aquarium’s fish and plants.

Many aquarists use air pumps, but several effective methods can boost oxygenation.

Oxygen primarily enters water through surface agitation, allowing for necessary gas exchange.

It’s a common misconception that air bubbles from pumps infuse oxygen — in reality, it’s surface disruption that matters.

Devices like filter sprays and powerheads, when aimed at the surface, increase agitation and improve oxygen levels.

Adding live aquatic plants such as Anacharis, Java Moss, or Amazon Sword harnesses photosynthesis to naturally raise oxygen.

Wet/dry filters expose water to air, efficiently boosting oxygen content.

Regular water changes introduce fresh, oxygen-rich water, while temperature control ensures water holds enough dissolved oxygen.

Monitoring for fish gasping at the surface helps catch low oxygen early, keeping your aquarium balanced and thriving.

Jewel Cichlid - Hemichromis letourneuxi

The Jewel Cichlid, scientifically known as Hemichromis letourneuxi, belongs to the Cichlidae family. This family is one of the largest in the fish kingdom, consisting of over 1,650 species. The Jewel Cichlid is native to Africa, specifically in the Nile River Basin, Chad, Senegal, Niger, and Cameroon. They are found in a variety of habitats, including rivers, streams, ponds, and lakes.

Physical Characteristics

Adult Jewel Cichlids range from 10-15 cm in length, with males being slightly larger than females. They are most known for their striking coloration. In their natural habitat, Jewel Cichlids are typically brown or gray, allowing them to blend with their surroundings. However, during breeding, their coloration changes to a brilliant red or orange, giving them their common name. They also have a series of blue spots across their body and fins, giving them an even more unique appearance.

Diet and Feeding

Jewel Cichlids are omnivores, meaning they eat both plant and animal matter. Their diet in the wild consists of small invertebrates, crustaceans, and plant matter. In captivity, they will eat a variety of foods, including live or frozen foods like brine shrimp or bloodworms, as well as high-quality pellet or flake food.

Behavior and Breeding

Jewel Cichlids are known for their aggressive and territorial behavior, especially during breeding. They form monogamous pairs and will fiercely defend their territory and eggs from potential intruders. They are substrate spawners, meaning they lay their eggs on flat surfaces like rocks or logs. Both parents participate in taking care of the eggs and the fry.

Aquarium Care

Due to their aggressive behavior, Jewel Cichlids are best kept in a species-specific tank or with other fish that can handle their aggression. They require a tank of at least 30 gallons, with plenty of hiding spots and a sandy substrate. The water temperature should be kept between 22-28°C (72-82°F), with a pH level of 6.0-7.5.

Conservation Status

The Jewel Cichlid is not currently listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, indicating it is not considered at risk of extinction. However, like all fish species, they are affected by habitat loss and degradation due to human activity.  As note in an articel below on invasive species in Turkey, the Jewel Cichlid has become a problem in other parts of the world and care should always be taken to ensure that you do not release these hardy fish into a native habitat that might become a place where they thrive to the detriment of other native fish species.

The Jewel Cichlid’s striking coloration and interesting behavior make them a popular choice for experienced aquarium hobbyists. Despite their aggressive nature, with the right care and conditions, these fish can make a captivating addition to a home aquarium.  Just be sure they are handled properly and never released to the wild.

Setting up an aquarium involves selecting essential equipment, with the heater being vital for stable water conditions.

Two main options are submersible heaters and clip-on heaters, each offering unique features and installation styles.

Submersible heaters sit directly in the tank, providing efficient and even heat — ideal for larger setups and those prioritizing aesthetics.

Clip-on heaters attach to the rim, keeping controls outside the tank, reducing electrical risks, though sometimes at the expense of uniform heat.

The heart of every heater is its thermostat, with older models relying on a simple bi-metallic strip and newer units showcasing advanced digital controls for more precision.

Many modern heaters now boast automatic shut-off and smart features like Wi-Fi monitoring, giving aquarists greater peace of mind.

Choosing the right heater helps ensure a healthy, thriving aquarium for every aquatic resident.

Turkey’s freshwater habitats face mounting danger from invasive tropical aquarium fish, driven by unregulated pet trades and intensifying climate change.

Non-native species such as goldfish, common carp, and vermiculated sailfin catfish are rapidly multiplying in rivers and lakes, outcompeting native fish and destabilizing ecosystems.

Climate change amplifies this crisis by warming local waters, allowing resilient tropical species like the clown featherback—one of the world’s most aggressive invaders—and jewel cichlid to expand their range and threaten biodiversity.

These species alter habitats, exhaust resources, and often introduce new diseases, creating serious risks for indigenous aquatic life.

Experts urge stricter regulations, targeted removal, and greater public awareness to limit releases and manage established populations.

With swift, coordinated action, Turkey can still protect its unique freshwater life for generations to come.

Create hiding spots in your aquarium for your freshwater tropical fish by adding driftwood, plants, and caves.

This will help reduce stress and aggression among your fish, leading to a healthier and happier environment.

Floating aquarium plants spark lively debate among aquarists.

Some enjoy their lush benefits in every tank, while others face rapid overgrowth or plant decline.

For certain setups, floating plants like water lettuce and duckweed may thrive uncontrollably or struggle with yellowing leaves and detached roots.

Understanding tank conditions, such as calm water, bright light, and available nutrients, is key for success.

Common choices—Red root floaters, Amazon frogbit, and Water spangles—each offer unique visual appeal and shelter for fish.

These plants diffuse light, help control algae, and provide refuge for fry, but may require manual removal or surface skimmers to prevent overgrowth.

With mindful care and attention to growth habits, floating plants can enhance both the health and beauty of your aquarium.