Payne's Jewel Cichlid, Fade (Hemichromis paynei) — 4-5cm

Overview

The Payne's Jewel Cichlid (Hemichromis paynei), often called the Fade variety, is a striking West African jewel cichlid with vivid colour and bold personality. This impressive species displays characteristic jewel cichlid beauty while remaining slightly smaller than some relatives. Available as african jewel cichlid for sale UK from specialist retailers like Tropical Fish Co, this rare freshwater fish UK brings authentic West African character to experienced keeper aquariums.

Growing to approximately 12cm adult size (data shows 4.5cm juvenile), Hemichromis paynei requires minimum 60-litre accommodation, though larger tanks strongly recommended. This aggressive omnivore is best kept by aquarists who can accommodate territorial nature. Buy tropical fish UK specimens only after understanding jewel cichlid aggression and space requirements.

Appearance

Hemichromis paynei displays beautiful coloration including vivid reds, blues, and iridescent spots creating jewel-like appearance. The "Fade" variety may show colour variations or patterns distinct from standard forms. Males develop more intense colours during breeding. Body is robust with powerful build suitable for territorial defence.

Natural Habitat

Native to West Africa with poorly documented exact range, inhabits rivers and streams with soft to moderately hard water, neutral to slightly acidic pH, and warm temperatures. Found among rocks, vegetation, and structures providing territory boundaries and spawning sites.

Aquarium Setup

Provide spacious tank with caves, rocks, driftwood, and visual barriers. Use sand or fine gravel. Secure all decorations firmly. Strong filtration essential. Perform regular water changes 30-40% weekly. Expect territorial behaviour and substrate digging.

Feeding

Omnivorous but primarily carnivorous. Offer quality cichlid pellets, frozen or live bloodworms, brine shrimp, mysis, chopped seafood. Supplement with occasional vegetable matter or spirulina-based foods. Feed 2-3 times daily in moderate portions.

Behaviour and Temperament

Very territorial especially as matures or pairs off. Aggressive toward inappropriate tankmates. Forms strong pair bonds when breeding, becoming highly territorial. Best kept with robust tankmates in large tanks or as species-only setup. jewel cichlid breeding pairs defend territories ferociously.

Tank Mates

Best with species-only or very carefully selected robust tankmates in large tanks. Fast, tough catfish like Synodontis may work in larger setups. Avoid: small fish, shrimp, snails, slow-moving or long-finned fish, other jewel cichlids in small tanks, peaceful community species.

Breeding

Substrate spawner forming pairs. Becomes highly territorial when breeding. Provide flat rocks or caves, excellent water quality, separate breeding tank recommended. Parents usually guard eggs and fry intensively. Eggs hatch 2-3 days, fry free-swimming after one week.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

When you buy african jewel cichlid for sale UK from Tropical Fish Co, you're choosing specialists in tropical fish online uk with expertise in aggressive species. Our Hemichromis paynei specimens are quarantined and acclimatised. We provide honest guidance on jewel cichlid tank size, aggression, compatibility. Fast uk tropical fish delivery ensures safe arrival. Support available for questions about how to breed jewel cichlid and long-term care. All livestock backed by health guarantee.