Tilapia jokki > (Coelotilapia joka) — > 8cm

Overview

The Tilapia jokki (Coelotilapia joka) is a striking West African cichlid with bold yellow striping and a distinctive black body, ideal for aquarists seeking a rare and rewarding species. Native to the rivers of Sierra Leone and Liberia, this relatively small tilapia reaches around 10 cm in adult length and has become increasingly sought-after in the hobby due to its unique appearance, manageable size, and fascinating behavior. Now available for sale UK from Tropical Fish Co, C. joka represents an excellent choice for experienced keepers looking to diversify their African cichlid collections beyond the more common Lake Malawi and Tanganyika species.

Appearance and Distinctive Features

Adult Coelotilapia joka are immediately recognizable by their dramatic coloration: a deep black or dark grey body overlaid with striking bright yellow or golden vertical bars. The contrast is particularly vivid in healthy, well-conditioned adults, making this species a standout in any aquarium. Males typically display more intense coloration and slightly larger size than females, especially during courtship and breeding. The body is oval-shaped with a relatively deep profile, large scales, and a continuous dorsal fin typical of tilapia species. Juveniles are less boldly colored, developing the characteristic yellow-and-black pattern as they mature.

Natural Habitat and Origin

Coelotilapia joka is native to the rivers of Sierra Leone and Liberia in West Africa, where it inhabits shallow, slow-moving sections with sandy or muddy substrates, submerged roots, and aquatic vegetation. Water conditions in these habitats are typically warm, soft to moderately hard, and slightly acidic to neutral, with seasonal fluctuations in flow and clarity. This species is classified as vulnerable in the wild due to habitat degradation and overfishing, making captive breeding efforts particularly important for conservation. The natural environment is characterized by dappled light, dense cover, and abundant organic matter, which should be replicated in captivity to encourage natural behavior and coloration.

Aquarium Setup and Tank Design

A minimum tank size of 250 litres is recommended for a small group or breeding pair of Coelotilapia joka. The aquascape should include plenty of hiding places such as rock caves, driftwood tangles, and dense planting (hardy species such as Anubias, Java Fern, or Vallisneria) to break lines of sight and reduce territorial aggression. A sandy or fine gravel substrate is ideal, as this species may dig when establishing territories or preparing spawning sites. Subdued lighting and floating plants will help replicate the shaded riverine environment and encourage confident behavior. Strong filtration and regular water changes (30-40% weekly) are essential to maintain excellent water quality, as West African cichlids are sensitive to elevated nitrates and poor conditions.

Diet and Feeding Strategy

In the wild, C. joka is omnivorous, feeding on algae, detritus, small invertebrates, insect larvae, and plant matter. In captivity, offer a varied diet based on high-quality cichlid pellets or granules, supplemented with spirulina-based foods, blanched vegetables (zucchini, peas, spinach), and regular frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and insect larvae. A varied diet will promote vibrant coloration, healthy growth, and conditioning for breeding. Feed small portions two to three times daily, removing any uneaten food promptly to maintain water quality. Well-fed adults will display the most intense yellow-and-black patterning.

Temperament and Social Behavior

Coelotilapia joka is classified as semi-aggressive, with territorial behavior most pronounced during breeding. Outside breeding periods, individuals are relatively peaceful and can coexist with other similarly sized West African species. Males establish and defend small territories, particularly when preparing spawning sites, and may display aggression toward rivals or perceived intruders. Females are generally more tolerant but can become defensive when guarding fry. This species is best kept in small groups (one male with multiple females) or as a bonded breeding pair, with plenty of hiding places to reduce stress and allow subordinate individuals to retreat when needed.

Compatible Tank Mates

Ideal tankmates for Coelotilapia joka include other robust West African cichlids of similar size and temperament, such as Pelvicachromis species, Chromidotilapia species, or Hemichromis species that are not overly aggressive. Peaceful to semi-aggressive catfish such as Synodontis species also make good companions, as they occupy different areas of the tank and are unlikely to compete for territories. Avoid housing with small fish that can be bullied or eaten, long-finned fish, very aggressive territorial cichlids, and tiny shrimp or other small invertebrates. The goal is to create a balanced West African biotope community with species that share similar water requirements and temperaments.

Breeding and Reproduction

Coelotilapia joka is likely a substrate-spawning cichlid that forms a pair bond, though detailed breeding behavior in captivity is not extensively documented. Breeding is triggered by excellent water quality, stable warm temperatures (26-28°C), and a varied, protein-enriched diet. Provide flat stones, slate, or smooth surfaces as potential spawning sites, and ensure the tank is well-structured with hiding places. Pairs typically guard eggs and fry aggressively, so tankmates should be chosen carefully to prevent predation or excessive harassment. Fry can be raised on newly hatched brine shrimp, finely crushed flake, or commercial fry powder, and should be separated to a rearing tank if survival rates are to be maximized.

Special Care and Conservation

As a vulnerable species in the wild, responsible keeping and breeding of Coelotilapia joka is particularly important. Provide excellent water quality with stable conditions, as this species is sensitive to poor water chemistry and elevated nitrates. Regular water changes, strong filtration, and careful monitoring of parameters are essential. This species is generally hardy when kept in stable conditions, but remains susceptible to common cichlid ailments such as ich, fungal infections, and bacterial issues if stressed or kept in poor conditions. Quarantine new arrivals, maintain consistent temperature and pH, and provide a varied, balanced diet to support immune health and coloration.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

Tropical Fish Co is the UK's leading specialist in rare, healthy, and ethically sourced African cichlids. Every Coelotilapia joka is carefully selected for health, coloration, and vitality, and shipped with expert care to ensure safe arrival. We provide detailed care guidance, ongoing support, and a live arrival guarantee on all livestock orders. Our commitment to quality, conservation, and customer satisfaction makes us the best choice for aquarists seeking unique and rewarding West African species. Order your Coelotilapia joka today and enjoy the striking beauty and fascinating behavior of this rare tilapia.