Golden julie (Julidochromis ornatus)

Scientific name: Julidochromis ornatus Boulenger, 1898

The Golden julie (Julidochromis ornatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae. In the aquarium it needs water at 22–24°C (72–75°F). Native range: Africa, Endemic to the northern part of Lake Tanganyika. One variety is endemic in the southern part (near Mpulungu).

Golden julie care at a glance

Temperature: 22–24°C (72–75°F)

Biology

Rock-dwelling. Usually solitary; territorial. Feeds on microorganisms. Breeding in captivity has led to changes in its colors and behaviors. Since there have been few new importations, this dwarf species has generally been available only in a somewhat degenerate form and does not always show its true colors. Aquarium keeping: in pairs; minimum aquarium size 60 cm.

Source: FishBase, licensed CC BY-NC 4.0.

Species facts

Scientific name: Julidochromis ornatus
Family: Cichlidae (Cichlids)
Order: Perciformes (Perch-like fish)
Class: Actinopterygii (Ray-finned fishes)
Maximum length: 8.5
Environment: Freshwater;; pH range: 8.0 - 9.0; dH range: 9 - 19 benthopelagic
Climate: Tropical
Distribution: Africa: Endemic to the northern part of Lake Tanganyika. One variety is endemic in the southern part (near Mpulungu).
Conservation status (IUCN): Least Concern (LC)
Threat to humans: Harmless
Uses: Aquarium: commercial
Resilience: High, minimum population doubling time less than 15 months (tm