Julidochromis Bemba

Julidochromis Bemba is a striking Tanganyika cichlid that brings bold pattern and confident personality to any freshwater setup. With its distinctive vertical markings and a calm-but-assertive demeanor, the Bemba makes a captivating centerpiece for experienced hobbyists who appreciate behavior, color, and breeding potential in a properly prepared tank.

Key Features

• Species: Julidochromis Bemba, a Tanganyika cichlid renowned for its dramatic vertical barring.
• Size: Typically reaches about 3.5–4 inches (9–10 cm) in length.
• Origin: Lake Tanganyika, Africa — a true inhabitant of rocky, cave-rich habitats.
• Temperament: Semi‑aggressive and territorial, especially during breeding; thrives in rocky setups with ample hiding spots and well-spaced individuals.
• Care Level: Moderate; rewarding for dedicated keepers with stable water parameters and varied diet.
• Tank Setup: Best shown in a rock-dominated aquarium with caves and crevices to mimic its natural habitat.

Care & Habitat

The Julidochromis Bemba thrives in a rigidly maintained Tanganyika-style environment. Set up a rocky aquarium with plenty of hiding spots and caves to allow each fish to claim its own territory. Ideal water conditions include a pH range of 7.8–9.0, temperatures of 75–82°F (24–28°C), and moderately hard to hard water (dGH in the mid-to-high range). A stable, well-filtered tank with reliable aeration supports both health and vibrant coloration. Regular water testing and incremental adjustments keep stress low and colors vivid.

Diet

• Omnivorous and adaptable — offer a varied diet for best coloration and health.
• Quality flakes or pellets as a daily staple.
• Supplement with frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and mysis as appropriate.

Breeding & Behavior

Julidochromis Bemba are cave-spawners in which a dedicated pair will bond and defend a rock ledge or crevice for egg laying. In a prepared setup, expect the pair to guard eggs and fry with diligence. After spawning, provide quiet, well-hidden micro-habitats to reduce stress and improve fry survival. Feeding fry is easier with small live foods or finely crushed prepared foods once they become free-swimming.

Tank Mates & Compatibility

• Best kept with other Tanganyika cichlids of similar size and temperament.
• Avoid overly aggressive or significantly larger tank mates that may disrupt territories.
• Provide ample rockwork and multiple cave-like hiding spaces to minimize aggression and promote natural behaviors.

Elevate your freshwater aquarium with the bold presence of the Julidochromis Bemba. Add to cart now to enhance color, behavior, and breeding excitement in a properly set up Tanganyika arena.