Julidochromis transcriptus
| Common Names: | Masked Julie |
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| Family: | Cichlidae |
| Category: | Cichlids |
| Distribution: | Africa; Lake Tanganyika, primarily the shores of the Republic of Congo |
| Main Ecosystem: | Rift Lake; Rift Lake |
| Temperament: | Territorial; Reclusive, aggressive, and territorial |
| Diet: | Carnivore; Carnivore |
| Care: | This fish can do well as a solitary example, a pair, or, in larger tanks, groups; as a smaller and more tranquil Julie, it is a popular addition to all kinds of Tanganyikan tanks. The surprisingly small mouth means that smaller pellets and flakes are preferred, or live food. |
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| Potential Size: | Male: 7cm (2.8") Female: 7cm (2.8") |
| Water Region: | All; Wherever the caves are, this fish will be, but they tend toward the middle-bottom generally. |
| Activity: | Diurnal; Diurnal |
| Gender: | Females are often larger than males and often plumped with eggs. In adults, venting may reveal the longer genital papillae of females, but the species is basically monomorphic. |
| Breeding: | Cave spawners, the already reclusive julies may seem to disappear altogether when guarding a clutch of eggs. Relatively small groups of fry are coupled with fairly consistent spawns; the older fry often help raise and protect their younger siblings, creating a colony feel to the tank. As adolescents, however, they may be kicked out by their parents and must be removed if the tank is too small to contain the entire family. |
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| Comments: | Avowed fry-eaters when it comes to other species, Julies may not be the best addition to a breeding tank if the parents are likely to allow predation. However, they make a lovely pair for the small rock-filled tank, and a stunning group for the larger tank. The bold black and white of this fish rivals that of Zebra Plecos or even saltwater species, and with the added bonus of lovely blue and/or yellow in the fins. |
| Main Colours: | White, Black, Blue |
| Markings: | Striped And Spotted |
| Mouth: | Normal |
| Tail: | Flat |
| Search: | Show similar species Find compatible species |
| Image Credit: | ;LittleMousling |
| Submitted By: | littlemousling |
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