Julidochromis Regani 3.5cm

Julidochromis Regani

The julidochromis cichlid has got to be one of the best entry-level African cichlids because of how hardy, peaceful, colourful, and small it stays. The julidochromis also comes in many different species and one of which is the Regani. These stunning fish originally come from Lake Tanganyika and are a beautiful and well-contrasted rock-dwelling cichlid that only reaches around 10 cm. This will make for a great breeding project or a fantastic addition to a community African cichlid tank.

The Julidochromis Regani has got to be one of the most contrasting and vibrant of the Julidochromis species. They tend to develop a much stronger gold tint when mature which is most strong near the belly and tail region. This does however transition into a lemon yellow in the upper parts of the body which is broken up by two parallel, jet-black lateral lines that run from head to tail. The fins also carry a black and white rim along with small white spots. The final bit of contrast comes from the baby blue hue these fish show on the nose area. Julidochromis Regani are also relatively peaceful and they prefer to be kept in colonies which means they look absolutely stunning in numbers over six as their colour shines in the tank. Their rock-dwelling behaviour also offers hours of fun as you see this species darting in and out of the aquascape showing off their curious behaviour.

Breeding julidochromis is relatively easy and usually does not require any interference. In a species-only setting, you will inevitably see fry in the aquarium and as long as they are fed and have cover, they should grow up in the same tank with little problems. Males tend to be larger and have far more bold and contrasting colours compared to females. 

Tank Recommendations for your Julidochromis Regani

As the julidochromis cichlid only reaches around 10 cm, an adult pair of these fish can easily be kept in a tank of around 70 litres. They will however thrive in larger aquariums when kept in a colony of 6 or more.  Since these cichlids spend a lot of time near the bottom of the aquarium it is best to ensure there is a decent footprint.

Julidochromis cichlids can be territorial, especially during breeding time however their aggression is quite minimal compared to other African cichlids. They should be provided with a plentiful supply of caves for security and just to diffuse the minimal aggression. These are also tropical fish which are best kept at 24-26 degrees.

Suitable Tank Buddies

The Julidochromis Regani cichlids can be kept with a range of other smaller and relatively peaceful African cichlids. Since these fish require a higher PH of around 8 the tank mates chosen should be adaptable to this.

Usually Compatible

Shell dweller species like neolamprologus mulifaciatus and smaller African cichlids such as black calves, furcifer cichlids, and other julidochromis.

Sometimes Compatible

Frontosa, smaller Mbuna species, and other larger but somewhat peaceful African cichlids like Mdoka whitelips. 

Rarely Compatible

Aggressive African cichlid species like fuscodichromis and polystigma. 

Feeding your Julidochromis Regani

Julidochromis Regani cichlids will take to aquarium foods very easily such as pellets, flakes, and frozen foods. By giving them a varied diet, it ensures that they have optimal nutrition. The ideal diet would be good quality, small, and slow food, supplemented with green matter like algae flakes or sheets.