Masked Julie | Julidochromis transcriptus
Cichlids / Africa / Lake Tanganyika / Masked Julie
Profile: Masked Julie, Black-and-White Julie
Julidochromis transcriptus Synonyms: None
Physical description: A fish with a body shape similar to that of J. ornatus. The body coloring is yellow-white to golden yellow. Three brown-black lateral stripes run the course of the body. The uppermost runs through the bottom part of the anal fin, while the lower most extends from the snout, through the eye, and to the caudal fin. Often these stripes are broken or dashed. Six to eight transverse, brown-black stripes extend down from the back to the lower lateral stripe. These stripes are usually incomplete and broken, and often missing. The anal, caudal, and dorsal fins have a black and white edge. The pelvic fins are yellow. Several color and pattern variations are known.
Size/Length: To 2.8" (7 cm)
Similar species: Some pattern variations of J. marlieri are similar.
Habitat: Eastern Africa; found near on the northwestern coast (Tanzania and Burundi) of Lake Tanganyika.
S: bottom, middle
Aquarium: 24" (60 cm) or 15 gallons (56 L). Follow the recommendations for J. ornatus in setting up the tank.
Water chemistry: pH 7.5-9.0 (8.2), 8-20 dH (15 cm), 72-77°F (22-25°C)
Social behavior: J. transcriptus's behavior is similar to that of J. ornatus .
Suggested companions: See J. ornatus.
FOOD: Algae; live; crustaceans, bloodworms, other insect larvae, aquatic insects, Tubifex; finely chopped meat; flakes; pellets; spinach.
Sexual differences: The female is larger and plumper. The male's genital papilla is pointed.
Breeding techniques: As for other Julidochromis species. Only 30-40 eggs are laid.
Breeding potential: 6. Breeding is more difficult to initiate than other Julidochromis.
Remarks: The smallest member of the genus Julidochromis.
Difficulty of care: 5. Care is rather easy for this cichlid.