Masked Julidochromis

(0) 0 Reviews 0 Orders 0 Wish listed

Maximum Size: 2.5 to 3 inches (6 to 7.5 cm)
One of the smallest species of the Julidochromis genus, making it suitable for smaller Tanganyikan setups.

Origin: Lake Tanganyika, East Africa
Found in rocky shoreline areas, where they live and breed in crevices and caves

Diet Type: Carnivorous (micro-predator)
In the wild, they feed on small crustaceans, insect larvae, and biofilm
In captivity, feed a variety of:
- High-quality cichlid pellets
- Brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms
- Occasional finely chopped krill or frozen foods
- Avoid excessive plant-based food

Breeding Behavior: Cave spawners, and typically form monogamous pairs
Breeding Season: No fixed season in captivity; they breed year-round under stable conditions
Female lays eggs in tight crevices or caves; both parents guard the eggs and fry
Fry stay near the breeding site for safety and may coexist with previous batches

Masked Julies are territorial, especially during breeding, but their smaller size makes them less aggressive than many larger cichlids.

Compatible tank mates:
- Other small, peaceful Tanganyikan cichlids like:
  - Neolamprologus multifasciatus (shell dwellers)
  - Altolamprologus compressiceps (dwarf forms)
  - Cyprichromis leptosoma (upper-water swimmers)
  - Lamprologus ocellatus (with care)
- Synodontis catfish (like Synodontis lucipinnis)
Avoid:
- Large or aggressive cichlids
- Very small or slow fish that may be harassed
- Overcrowding or mixing with other Julidochromis species (due to hybrid risk and aggression)

Minimum Tank Size: 20 to 30 gallons for a pair; 40+ gallons for a community
Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 75–80°F (24–27°C)
- pH: 7.8–9.0
- Hardness: 10–20 dGH
Tank Setup:
- Rocky aquascape with plenty of caves and hiding spots
- Fine sand or smooth gravel substrate
- Stable, clean water with good filtration (avoid rapid water chemistry changes)