The Masked Julie (Julidiochromis transcriptus) is also known as a Black and White Julie.

Scientific Name:

Julidiochromis transcriptus

Approximate purchase size:

3-4cm

All Pond Solutions will always endeavor to supply as close to the approximate size range as possible.  Due to variations from suppliers on rare occasions this may not always be possible. 

How easy are they to care for?

The Masked Julie is really easy to keep once the water and environment is set up for it.  It is the smallest of its genus and are the most shy. It eats a wide variety of foods and will breed easily on its own. The aquarium will need regular water changes.  A minimum sized aquarium of 20 gallons is required for a pair, and 60 gallons for a community tank. They need a gravel base and lots of rocks and caves that replicate their natural environment.

How large can they grow?

Up to 7cm

Where in the world are they from?

Lake Tanganyika in Africa

What is the ideal number to keep together?

They can be kept in community tanks or in pair, they are friendlier than other Tanganyika cichlids but need to be kept away from aggressive, predatory or peaceful fish.

What water conditions do they require?

The water temperature should be between 22.8 - 26.7° C with a pH range of 8.5 – 9.2.

What should you feed them?

Masked Julie’s are omnivores and will eat flakes, pellets, shrimps and worms.

How compatible are they with other fish?

They are semi-aggressive but can be kept in a community with other similar sized Tanganyika cichlids, or in a group of several same species pairs. They will not tolerate their own offspring do fry must be removed.

Can they be bred in captivity?

The Masked Julies are egg layers and will form tight pairs. They will lay eggs in caves or hidden areas and box sexes will take good care of their fry. When their offspring grow to 1” they will chase them away and become intolerable of them.