Balloon Jewel Cichlid

Balloon Jewel Cichlid Overview

• Scientific Name: Hemichromis sp. (balloon morph)

• Common Names: Balloon Jewel Cichlid

• Origin: West Africa

• Size: 4–6 inches (10–15 cm)

• Lifespan: 5–8 years with good care

• Coloration: Bright red to deep orange body with iridescent blue-green spots ("jewel" pattern) scattered across the body and fins

• Body Shape: Rounded, swollen "balloon" body shape due to selective breeding, more compact than standard jewel cichlids

• Temperament: Aggressive and territorial, especially during breeding

• Behavior: Active, bold, and highly territorial

• Swimming Level: Mid to bottom

Tank Setup

• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons for a single or pair; larger for community setups

• Aquascape:

  • Rock caves, driftwood, and hiding spots to establish territories

  • Sand or fine gravel substrate

  • Hardy plants (if any), but plants may be uprooted due to digging behavior

• Lighting: Moderate to highlight coloration

• Filtration: Strong filtration and regular water changes to manage bioload

Stable, clean water with good oxygenation is important.

Diet

• Type: Carnivore / Omnivore

• Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times daily

• Diet Options:

  • High-quality pellets or flakes formulated for carnivorous cichlids

  • Live or frozen foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp, blackworms)

  • Occasional vegetable matter (blanched spinach or peas)

Behavior & Tank Mates

• Temperament: Highly aggressive and territorial—best kept with robust tank mates or in species-only tanks

• Best Kept: Alone, in pairs, or in large tanks with enough space and hiding spots

• Compatible Tank Mates:

  • Larger, robust cichlids with similar temperament (with caution)

• Avoid: Small, timid, or slow-moving fish that can be bullied or harmed

Breeding Info

• Breeding Type: Substrate spawner

• Breeding Setup:

  • Flat rocks or slate for egg-laying

  • Separate breeding tank recommended to protect fry

• Fry Care: Parents guard eggs and fry aggressively; fry can be fed finely crushed flakes or baby brine shrimp

Special Care Tips

• Balloon Shape: The balloon body shape is due to selective breeding and can lead to health issues like swim bladder problems and reduced agility. Handle with care.

• Tank Size: Provide ample space to reduce aggression.

• Water Quality: Keep water pristine to avoid stress and disease.

• Observation: Monitor behavior closely during breeding; aggression can escalate.

Fun Fact

Balloon Jewel Cichlids are a selectively bred morph of the classic jewel cichlid, prized for their brilliant color and unique “balloon” shape, but this body shape makes them slower swimmers compared to standard jewel cichlids.