Julidochromis Kipili

Regan's Julie is has a widespread distribution throughout Lake Tanganyika, where it is found in the shallow, sediment-rich rocky habitat. Here, their territories tend to be centred around cracks or fissures in the rocks and rubble. The natural diet consists primarily of small crustaceans, insect larvae, and molluscs picked from the algae-encrusted substrate, and occasionally, drifting plankton. The aquarium that houses this species should be at least 4ft long, with a good amount of filtration, water movement and oxygenation. The best choice of substrate would be coral sand or aragonite, which will help to keep the water hard and alkaline. Rocks should be used to create small outcrops and plenty of caves/crevices, ensuring that there are ample broken lines-of-sight. J. regani can be somewhat aggressive towards one another in the confines of the home aquarium, so in most situations, they are best kept singly or in compatible pairs. These cichlids can be maintained as part of a Tanganyikan community with fish of similar size and temperament, and which occupy different areas of the tank; however, do not mix them with other Julidochromis species. If the tank is particularly voluminous, multiple pairs can be kept as long as there are plenty of territories to go round (several per fish) and a multitude of visual barriers. Regan's Julies are intolerant of poor water conditions, so ensure small partial water changes are carried out on a frequent basis. Several different geographical colour morphs are available, including Bujumbura, Chimba, Kachese, Kagongo, Karilani Island and Nsumbu. May also be seen on sale as the Convict Julie. The kipili form has now been described as J. marksmithi.