1. Select a breeding pair. The breeding pair should be sexually mature. To determine if a Jack Dempsey is sexually mature, look for one that is at least 3 inches in length and has a vivid and bright coloring.
2. Set up a breeding tank. The breeding tank should be a size of at least 20 gallons. It should be filled with clean, dechlorinated water at a temperature of 78-82°F. The tank should also provide hiding places for the female.
3. Allow the breeding pair to court and spawn. The breeding pair will first engage in courting behaviors, such as circling each other and flaring their fins. When the female is ready to lay eggs, she will select a spot in the tank and lay the eggs. The male will then fertilize the eggs.
4. Protect the eggs. The female Jack Dempsey will guard the eggs until they hatch, which will take about 2-4 days. During this time, it is important to keep the water clean and free of pollutants.
5. Feed the fry. The fry will begin to swim freely about 2-3 days after they hatch. They can be fed live food, such as brine shrimp or daphnia, or they can be fed prepared food.