jack dempseys

[fishpoop]

1st of all, is a 55 gallon too small for a jack dempsey...and if not what would be some tank mates that are suitable for being with one?

 

[amishfignewton]

I would keep 1 or 2 jds in a 55. Any similiar sized american cichlid would be suitable.

 

[GDH]

I would only have one. If you have two or three, the dominant one will make the other(s) miserable, which wouldnt be good. Your tank isnt big enought to have enough fish to spread out the aggression, so one is best. You might be able to have some fish like giant danios for dithers, jack dempseys usually hide alot. If youre looking for a personable cichlid, a jack dempsey isnt really a great choice.

 

[DarthV]

Tankmates? How about a few male convicts ? Maybe a female Green Terror (they only get to about 9")

 

[Fishman24]

I agree only keep one. These fish when they get older are very aggressive towards each other. A 55 is fine in my opionion if you decorate well. You can add a cat or two. I will tell you what I have but it doesn't work for everyone. I have a 90-100 gallon tank that has 2 oscars, peacocks or bengas and Maylandies- large parrots and a JD and something else I have yet to identify. I believe it all depends on how you are able to set up territories and the size of each respective fish. I think they are pretty cool fish.