Masked Julie

Julidochromis transcriptus, commonly known as the Masked Julie , is a small, rock-dwelling cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. It is prized for its bold patterning, interesting behavior, and suitability for smaller Tanganyikan aquariums.

Adult Masked Julies typically reach about 2.5 to 3 inches (6 to 7.5 cm) in length, making them the smallest member of the Julidochromis genus. They have a pale, cream-to-white base color overlaid with irregular black horizontal stripes along the body and a distinctive dark “mask” that runs from the snout through the eye. Their fins often have blue or white edging, and each fish’s pattern is slightly unique. Males and females look similar, but females are usually slightly larger and more robust.

A tank of at least 20 gallons is suitable for a pair or small group. The aquarium should feature a sandy substrate with abundant rockwork, caves, and crevices to mimic their natural rocky habitat and provide spawning sites. These fish are territorial, so line-of-sight breaks in the rock layout are essential to reduce aggression.

Water parameters should reflect those of Lake Tanganyika: a temperature of 75 to 80°F (24 to 27°C), a pH between 8.0 and 9.0, and hard, alkaline water with high mineral content. Stable conditions and clean, well-filtered water are essential for their health and breeding.

Feeding Julidochromis transcriptus is simple. They are omnivorous and will accept high-quality cichlid flakes or pellets, supplemented with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and daphnia. A varied diet helps maintain health and coloration.

Masked Julies are best kept as a bonded pair or in carefully chosen Tanganyikan community tanks with species that occupy different niches, such as shell dwellers or midwater swimmers like Cyprichromis. Avoid keeping them with aggressive species that might outcompete them for territory.

Breeding is relatively straightforward. Masked Julies are cave spawners; the female lays eggs inside a chosen rock crevice or shell, and both parents guard the eggs and fry. The fry grow slowly and should be fed finely crushed flakes, baby brine shrimp, or powdered foods once free-swimming.

Julidochromis transcriptus (Masked Julie) is a beautiful, compact Tanganyikan cichlid that brings personality, intricate patterns, and fascinating breeding behavior to smaller rocky biotope aquariums.