How to make jack Dempsey less shy

[mahsfish]

I got 2 male blue gene jack dempseys a few months back around 5". I sold one and now I just have 1 7" male jack living in my 55 gal

He's pretty shy and skittish. Darts across the tank if there is sudden movement. And hides when I try to look at him unless I stay still and don't move.

I was wondering if there is any way I can make him more comfortable to come out more, or if I have the space to add a few other fish to make him feel more comfortable.



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[gamerpond1]

Is he by himself

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[MarvGT]

Add dithers. Tiger barbs or similar for that size tank.

 

[duanes]

Agree with adding dithers, in nature JDs are surrounded by live bearers, which they watch to determine the likely hood of near by danger.
In the cenotes where I have observed them, the ratio is probably around 50-100 livebearers for each pair of JDs.

 

[bhfautsch]

I have the same problem. My jd's behavior sounds almost identical to yours. It's frustrating because my 4' tank looks empty a lot of the time and it seems like wasted space. Only he is a very beautiful fish in terms of his colors- just wish he was more outgoing. I've thought about dithers but I'm pretty sure that most of the dithers they sell at the fish stores around here would just become feeders for my JD. I know mine would gulp up giant danios no problem and say thanks for the snack!

 

[Rivers2k]

I had the same problem and decided to get a different fish. I LOVE the looks of JD's but she stayed at the bottom all the time. And I a bunch of baby firemouths as dithers.

 

[ehh]

Mine eventually became really reclusive too. He lived with 6 silver dollars.


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[Rivers2k]

I wonder if it is an older Jd thing to become reclusive cause when mine was younger she was always out.

 

[ehh]

I wonder if it is an older Jd thing to become reclusive cause when mine was younger she was always out.

I've read that they do. I've also read that they spook a lot more easily as they age too.


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[lp85253]

my jd isn't reclusive.. (3 y.o., 8 inch).I kinda think that has to do with the fact that I don't "mess" with that tank much(just routine maintenance)..I don't change aquascaping or constantly change the fish line-up... he and the raphy in there don't have any stress...they are both out looking for food anytime I hang out in front of the tank...so in summary, my advice is don't bother the fish with undue interaction(they aren't THAT outgoing) and let him settle in...if you want a fish to "play" with ,get an oscar or a red devil and make them a solo cichlid in a 75 or 90 gallon tank