More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 70 litres / 18.49 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 8.0cm / 3.15inches |
| Temperature | 23°C / 73.40°F - 27°C / 80.60°F |
| Hardness | 10-25ºdH |
| pH | 8.0-9.2 |
General Description
Julidochromis Dickfeldi, also known as Brown Julie, is part of the Cichlidae family endemic to Lake Tanganyika. These cichlids have a maximum size of 8.0cm and are recognized for their distinctive pointed snout and unique patterning, featuring blue edging on the dorsal and anal fins and dark horizontal stripes.
Aquarium Setup
For optimal care, Julidochromis Dickfeldi should be housed in a Lake Tanganyika biotope aquarium setup. This includes rocks arranged to create caves, filling a significant portion of the tank. It is advisable to have a sandy substrate and maintain well-oxygenated water conditions with a pH of 8.0-9.2, hardness of 10-25 dH, and a temperature range of 23-27°C (see table).
Behaviour
These cichlids are territorial and are best kept in pairs to avoid aggression towards conspecifics. They can cohabitate successfully with other small to medium-sized tanganyikan cichlids that occupy different areas of the tank. Once established, these fish rarely leave their territories.
Feeding and Diet
In the wild, Julidochromis Dickfeldi feed on live and frozen foods as a staple, with occasional dried foods. Including some vegetable matter such as spirulina or blanched spinach in their diet is recommended for a balanced nutritional intake.
Reproduction & Dimorphism
Reproduction in Julidochromis Dickfeldi is relatively easy but requires patience. They are bi-parental cave spawners, and forming pairs naturally is preferred over introducing already paired adults. The female lays eggs in the cave, and after hatching, the fry should be left with the parents until they are around 1 inch in length. Sexing adults is challenging, with females typically larger than males.
Habitat and Distribution
In their natural habitat, Julidochromis Dickfeldi inhabits rocky shorelines in the southwest region of Lake Tanganyika, specifically between Kapampa and Ndole, always in shallow waters.Endemic to Lake Tanganyika, these cichlids thrive in specific environmental conditions akin to their native habitat.