Masked Julie

Julidochromis transcriptus

Family : Cichlidae

FishFreshwatercichlid

Julidochromis transcriptus is a small striped cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, valued for its interesting behavior and subtle colors. It lives in pairs or small groups in rocky areas.

Masked Julie — photo 1 sur 4
Przemysław Malkowski · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.01 / 4
Popularity
Biotope specialist
requires biotope recreation
Availability
Specialty only
Shop availability
IUCN Status
LC
Least Concern

Description

This cichlid reaches up to 7 cm and has an elongated body with vertical black and white bands. The fins are often edged with blue. It has a slightly inferior mouth adapted for foraging in crevices. Its behavior is territorial but less aggressive than other Tanganyika cichlids. It forms monogamous pairs and defends a small rocky area. Breeding occurs in caves with intense parental care. Juveniles are tolerated to some extent.

Habitat

Region :

Lake Tanganyika, rocky coastal areas

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature2427 °C
pH7.58.5
GH815 °dGH
KH812 °dKH
NO₃
≤ 20 mg/L
PO₄
≤ 0.5 mg/L

Care

Difficulty
3/5
Diet
Omnivore
Min. tank
80 L
Min. group
2
Adult size
7 cm
Lifespan
6 years
Temperament
Territorial
Propagation
ponte sur substrat, soins parentaux

Care notes

Maintain a temperature of 24-27°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 8-15, and KH 8-12. A minimum 80-liter tank is recommended for a pair. Feed a varied diet: flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, small crustaceans. Avoid overly active or large tankmates; choose other Tanganyika cichlids of similar size. Provide plenty of hiding places with rocks and caves. Regular water changes (20% weekly) are essential. Keep nitrates below 20 mg/L and phosphates below 0.5 mg/L.

Similar species

Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance

References