More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 110 litres / 29.06 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 15.0cm / 5.91inches |
| Temperature | 23°C / 73.40°F - 27°C / 80.60°F |
| Hardness | 10-25ºdH |
| pH | 7.5-9.5 |
General Description
Julidochromis Marlieri, commonly known as Marlier's Julie, is a characterful cichlid from Lake Tanganyika. Reaching up to 15.0cm in size, this species is territorial and often seen swimming along rock surfaces. The species is a part of the Cichlidae family under the Pseudocrenilabrinae category.
Aquarium Setup
For Marlier's Julie, a minimum tank size of 110 litres is recommended. The tank should mimic a Lake Tanganyika biotope, with rocks arranged to create caves and a sandy substrate. It is crucial to ensure good oxygenation in the tank, and if housing multiple rock-dwelling species, separate rock piles are advised to prevent aggression. Specific water conditions include a hardness of 10-25°dH, a pH range of 7.5-9.5, and a temperature between 23-27°C (see table).
Behaviour
Marlier's Julie is territorial and best maintained in pairs due to adult aggression towards each other. In larger tanks, successful cohabitation with similar-sized Tanganyikan cichlids like Altolamprologus and Cyprichromis species is possible. However, unless the tank is considerably large, keeping them as a pair is recommended.
Feeding and Diet
The diet of Marlier's Julie should consist of live and frozen foods along with a good-quality dried brand. Some vegetable matter like spirulina or blanched spinach should also be included in their diet to ensure proper nutrition.
Reproduction & Dimorphism
Breeding Marlier's Julie is relatively easy but requires patience. Starting with a group of young fish to allow pairs to form naturally is ideal. Once a pair forms, the other fish should be removed. The female lays eggs in a cave, with the male guarding the vicinity. The fry require no immediate feeding and can be nourished with brine shrimp nauplii. Sexual dimorphism is evident, with males having more extended and pointed genital papillae compared to females.
Habitat and Distribution
Endemic to Lake Tanganyika, Marlier's Julie is commonly found along the rocky shorelines in deeper waters. Their distribution is more concentrated in the northern and southern regions of the lake, with sparser populations along the eastern and western shores.