Masked Julie (Julidochromis transcriptus) Care Guide

A small, attractive rock-dwelling cichlid from Lake Tanganyika with bold black markings on a cream-white body. Forms strong pair bonds and defends a small cave territory.

Overview

Julidochromis transcriptus is a species in the family Cichlidae. A small, attractive rock-dwelling cichlid from Lake Tanganyika with bold black markings on a cream-white body. Forms strong pair bonds and defends a small cave territory. Swims in an unusual upside-down orientation when exploring overhangs.

Taxonomy

Family: Cichlidae
Genus: Julidochromis
Scientific name: Julidochromis transcriptus
Other names: Transcriptus Julie, Black and White Julie
Origin: Africa, Lake Tanganyika

Habitat

Julidochromis transcriptus is a small, elongate cichlid endemic to the rocky shores of Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. It picks invertebrates from rock crevices, forms strongly bonded pairs and spawns within caves with biparental care.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 80 L
Temperature: 23-27 °C
pH: 7.5-9
GH: 10-20 °dGH
Water flow: moderate
Adult size: 5-7 cm
Lifespan: 5-8 years
Difficulty: intermediate

Diet

Classified as omnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 2x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: semi-aggressive
Position in tank: bottom
Compatible tank mates: Neolamprologus Multifasciatus, Neolamprologus Brichardi, Synodontis Petricola
Avoid with: Mbunas, Large Cichlids, Aggressive Fish

Breeding

Breeding strategy: cave-spawner
Breeding difficulty: intermediate