Masked julie - Julidochromis transcriptus

Scientific name: Julidochromis transcriptus

Common name: Masked julie

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 6 - 7 cm (2.36 - 2.76 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 8 - 8.9

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 18 - 30°N (321.43 - 535.71ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 22 - 25 °C (71.6 - 77°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: Africa

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Origin

The Masked Julie (Julidochromis transcriptus) is native to the rocky shorelines of Lake Tanganyika in Africa. This natural habitat is characterized by high water hardness and alkaline conditions, which should be replicated in the aquarium to keep them healthy. They are commonly found hiding among rocks and crevices in the lake, so creating a similar environment in captivity is crucial for their well-being.

Tank Requirements

Masked Julies thrive in an aquarium that mimics their natural habitat. A minimum tank size of 60 liters (15 gallons) is recommended for a small group. The water conditions should be maintained at a pH range of 8-8.9, with hardness between 18-30°N (321.43-535.71 ppm) to replicate the alkaline environment of Lake Tanganyika. The water temperature should be kept between 22-25°C (71.6-77°F).

These fish prefer a substrate of smooth sand or small-grained gravel to prevent injury to their delicate undersides. The tank should be decorated with plenty of rocks and caves to provide hiding spots, as Masked Julies are timid and often retreat to these spaces. Low lighting is also preferred, as they tend to be more active and visible when the aquarium is dimly lit. They typically occupy the lower levels of the tank, rarely venturing far from their chosen hiding spots.

Tankmates

Masked Julies are peaceful towards their own species and other similarly sized cichlids. However, they are best kept with other cichlids from Lake Tanganyika that have different colorations to prevent hybridization. Suitable tankmates include:

• Fairy Cichlid (Neolamprologus brichardi)
• White Lamprologus (Altolamprologus calvus)
• Slender cichlid (Cyprichromis leptosoma)

Avoid keeping them with aggressive or much larger cichlids, as this could cause stress and territorial disputes. Providing plenty of hiding places and territories in the tank will help reduce conflicts and create a more harmonious environment.

Food and Feeding

Masked Julies are not fussy eaters and will accept a variety of foods. A diet consisting of high-quality flakes, cichlid pellets, and occasional servings of live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp is ideal. Feeding them small meals several times a day is recommended over larger meals to accommodate their small stomachs and prevent digestive issues.

To ensure proper nutrition, it's important to vary their diet. Include vegetable-based foods occasionally, as this will help in maintaining their health and vibrant coloration. Avoid overfeeding to prevent water quality issues, as they are sensitive to sudden changes in water conditions.

Sexing

Sexing Masked Julies can be challenging, but it is generally believed that females are slightly larger than males. However, there are no prominent visual differences between the sexes, making it difficult to distinguish them without observing their behavior during breeding.

Breeding

Masked Julies are cave spawners, and breeding them requires a tank environment that offers plenty of hiding spots and rockwork. They are known to be timid, so it's essential to place the breeding tank in a quiet area with minimal human traffic to prevent disturbances. It is best to start with a group of juveniles and allow them to form pairs naturally. Once a pair has been established, remove the other fish to reduce stress and competition.

The pair will lay their eggs in a cave, and the parents will take turns guarding the fry once they hatch. Initially, the parents may eat the eggs, but they will learn to be excellent caregivers over time. To increase the success rate, it is advisable to add baby brine shrimp to the tank for the fry to feed on. For better survival rates, the fry can be moved to a separate tank once they are free-swimming and capable of finding food in the water column.

Lifespan

With proper care, the expected lifespan of Julidochromis transcriptus is around 8 years, making them a long-term commitment for aquarists.

Short Description

Masked Julies are one of the smallest members of their family and are a suitable choice for beginner cichlid keepers. They are known for their peaceful nature but can be shy and reclusive, preferring to hide among rocks and caves in the aquarium. Despite their timid behavior, they are relatively easy to care for as long as their specific water requirements are met. Masked Julies thrive in hard, alkaline water and are more tolerant of weekly water changes than previously thought.

These cichlids are an excellent addition to species or community tanks, as long as they are kept with other peaceful species. However, care should be taken to avoid keeping them with similarly colored fish to prevent hybridization. Providing a well-structured tank with plenty of hiding places will help them feel secure and encourage them to display their natural behaviors.

Picture

Thaks to Ted Judy. Also, some pictures were bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.