Marlier's Julie
From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer
Bold patterns and a droll expression make this a popular species with African cichlid enthusiasts. JJPhoto.dk
[edit] Overview
These are strikingly colored fish with a facial structure many find comical or endearing. They are generally more peaceful than many African cichlids but very scrappy with their own kind. Although there is variation among populations, these fish are typically seen with a black and white checkerboard-type pattern. Older males often show some humping to their head area. The mouth is larger than that seen in J. ornatus.
Family: Cichlidae
Other common name(s):
Native range:
Habitat: Marlier’s Julie prefers a tank with lots of rock formations in which to hide, as well as a few hardy plants. Rockwork should be well anchored to prevent toppling.
Maximum length: 13 cm (5 in)
Minimum aquarium size: 114 L (30 gal)
Water: Freshwater 22 °C (295 K, 72 °F) - 26 °C (299 K, 79 °F)
General swimming level: Near substrate.
[edit] Feeding
Omnivore. Like other members of the genus, Julidochromis marlieri is not a particularly fussy eater and will accept a wide range of live, frozen and prepared meaty foods in the aquarium, including cichlid flakes. Some herbivore and color-enhancing rations should be fed regularly.
[edit] Aquarium Compatibility
Start with a small group and let them pair up. These are territorial cichlids that may be intolerant toward conspecifics.
[edit] Breeding/Propagation
Marlier’s Cichlids are cave spawners that lay their eggs on the ceilings of caves. They form pair bonds and both parents guard the spawn. It is difficult to distinguish the sexes.
[edit] Notes
Because they need hard, alkaline water, provide a dolomite or coral-based substrate.
| Common name | Marlier's Julie + |
| Family | Cichlidae + |
| Genus | Julidochromis + |
| Image credit | JJ + |
| Maximum length | 5 in + |
| Minimum aquarium size | 30 gal + |
| Native range | Lake Tanganyika + |
| Reference | 101 Best Tropical Fishes + |
| Specific name | marlieri + |
| Swimming level | Near substrate. + |
| Text credit | KW + |
| Water max temp | 299 K (26 °C, 79 °F) + |
| Water min temp | 295 K (22 °C, 72 °F) + |
| Water type | Freshwater + |