Juba Cichlid Natural History
Size
The Juba Cichlid can grow to between 15-27cm long with males growing larger than females.
Habitat and Distribution
They are native to Madagascar and inhabit inland wetlands. They are more abundant in freshwater but can tolerate brackish water.
Age
The lifespan of a Juba Cichlid is 6 years old.
Diet
Like other cichlids, the Juba Cichlid is an omnivore and tends to feed on small water organisms and vegetation.
Groups and Breeding
This fish is a substrate spawning fish and will dig out a small pit to lay the eggs in. The adults will then protect the eggs from any potential predators. They then hatch after 8-10 days and the adults still protect them until the young feed for themselves.
Threats
The Juba Cichlid is threatened by invasive species and water pollution. The IUCN Red List classes this species as Least Concern.
Interesting Facts
These fish are also highly territorial towards other fish species.
The Juba Cichlid Fish During Your Day Out in Kent
The Juba Cichlid can be found in our new Reptile House living alongside our Cuban Crocodiles.
The more you know…
Want to know more about these animals? Check out our keeper blogs about them below.