Regan's Julie (Julidochromis regani) Care Guide

Largest Julidochromis species reaching 14-15 cm. Brownish body with horizontal black stripes. Pair-bonding cave spawner; peaceful for size and a centerpiece for medium Tanganyika setups.

Overview

Julidochromis regani is a species in the family Cichlidae. Largest Julidochromis species reaching 14-15 cm. Brownish body with horizontal black stripes. Pair-bonding cave spawner; peaceful for size and a centerpiece for medium Tanganyika setups.

Taxonomy

Family: Cichlidae
Genus: Julidochromis
Scientific name: Julidochromis regani
Other names: Convict Julie
Origin: Africa, Lake Tanganyika

Habitat

Endemic to Lake Tanganyika, inhabiting rocky shorelines. The largest Julidochromis species; forms monogamous pairs that defend rocky territories and spawn in crevices. Marked with horizontal stripes; feeds on invertebrates and biofilm grazed from rocks.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 250 L
Temperature: 24-27 °C
pH: 8.5-9.2
GH: 12-25 °dGH
Adult size: 13-16 cm
Lifespan: 6-10 years
Difficulty: intermediate

Diet

Classified as carnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 2x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: semi-aggressive
Swimming level: bottom
Compatible tank mates: Cyprichromis, Synodontis petricola, Larger Lamprologines
Avoid with: Mbuna, Tropheus

Breeding

Breeding strategy: cave-spawner