[Ebook] 500 freshwater aquarium fish – Cichlids – Dickfeld’s Julie (Julidochromis dickfeldi)

Unusually for an African Rift Lake species, the various Julies, including Julidochromis dickfeldi, are not mouthbrooders. This species, together with the Yellow or Ornate Julie (Julidochromis ornatus) and the Masked or Black-and-white Julie (Julidochromis transchptus), are often referred to as the “Dwarf” Julies, although the size difference between them and the other two species in the genus is not always as great as their “labels” might suggest.

Other common name

• Brown Julie

Distribution

• Southwestern part of Lake Tanganyika.

Size

• Up to 4in (10cm), but often smaller.

Behavior

• Intolerant toward its own species.

Diet

• Wide range of foods accepted.

Aquarium

• Properly constructed backgrounds with plenty of rock shelters and open sandy areas. Medium-hard, alkaline, well-filtered water important. Temperature range: 72-77°F (22-25°C); slightly higher for breeding.

Breeding

• Eggs are laid in a cave, and they and the fry are cared for by both parents.