All our fish, shrimp and corals are bagged with fresh oxygen as well as a heat pack in winter.
When ordering livestock please select the box size and add it to your cart for accurate overnight (1-2 days) shipping costs. A small box can take 1-2 bags and a medium box 6 bags. One bag fits max 10 small (1-3cm) fish or max 2 medium (3-5cm) fish or max 1 large (>5cm) fish.
ONE SPECIES PER BAG. Eg: One bag of 10 neon tetra.
Julidochromis dickfeldi
Description:
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Appearance:
- Body: Small to medium-sized cichlid with an elongated, laterally compressed body. Known for its distinctive appearance and behavior.
- Color: Typically has a yellow to light brown or beige body with dark vertical stripes or spots. The intensity and pattern of the coloration can vary among individuals.
- Size: Generally grows to about 3-4 inches (7-10 cm) in length.
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Behavior:
- Activity: Active and territorial, often seen occupying crevices and caves within the aquarium.
- Social Structure: Territorial, particularly during breeding. Males may become aggressive towards each other, especially in confined spaces.
Care Requirements:
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Tank Size:
- Minimum of 30 gallons (113 liters); larger tanks are preferred to provide sufficient space and reduce territorial disputes.
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Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C).
- pH: 7.5-8.5.
- Hardness: Moderately hard to hard water. They prefer alkaline conditions with high mineral content.
- Filtration: Good filtration is necessary to maintain water quality, though the current should not be too strong. They prefer stable water conditions.
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Tank Setup:
- Substrate: Sand or fine gravel is ideal, as they may sift through the substrate.
- Aquascaping: Provide plenty of hiding spots and structures such as rocks, driftwood, and caves. They are cave-dwelling fish and need places to establish territories and feel secure.
- Lighting: Standard aquarium lighting is sufficient. They benefit from having shaded areas and crevices to mimic their natural environment.
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Diet:
- Primary Food: Omnivorous; feed a varied diet including high-quality cichlid pellets, flakes, and live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.
- Supplemental Food: Offer occasional treats like blanched vegetables (e.g., spinach) to ensure a balanced diet.
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Behavioral Considerations:
- Compatibility: Best kept with other peaceful cichlids or small fish that are not overly aggressive. Avoid keeping with larger or more aggressive species that may outcompete or bully them.
- Social Behavior: Can be kept in pairs or small groups. They form monogamous pairs during breeding and may become more territorial. Ensure ample hiding spots and territories are provided to reduce stress.
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Tank Maintenance:
- Water Changes: Perform regular water changes (20-30% weekly) to maintain water quality and reduce the buildup of toxins.
- Cleaning: Regularly clean the tank and remove any uneaten food or waste. Ensure the filtration system is functioning properly.
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Health Care:
- Observation: Monitor for signs of stress or illness, such as changes in behavior, loss of appetite, or visible symptoms like discoloration or fin damage.
- Treatment: Maintain optimal water conditions and consult an aquarium professional if any health issues arise. Promptly address any signs of disease or stress to ensure the health of your fish.