How big does a Masked Julie get?

Only 7 cm, making it the smallest Julidochromis species. Perfect for smaller Tanganyika setups from 60 litres.

Do Masked Julies form pairs?

Yes, they form strong monogamous pair bonds and are cave spawners. Once paired, they will defend their territory vigorously.

What should I feed a Masked Julie?

Cichlid pellets, frozen foods, and spirulina. In the wild they eat zooplankton and small invertebrates.

Can I keep Masked Julies with other cichlids?

Yes, with other similarly sized Tanganyika cichlids and Synodontis petricola. Avoid mixing with Malawi cichlids.

Julidochromis transcriptus

Masked Julie Gombi — Masked Julie (Julidochromis transcriptus)

Name: Masked Julie Gombi — Masked Julie (Julidochromis transcriptus)
Brand: Tropical Fish Co
SKU: 0557
Price: 16.99 GBP
Availability: PreOrder

Moderate Care

Semi-Aggressive

£16.99In Stock

The smallest Julidochromis — a charming black-and-white patterned cave-spawning cichlid from Lake Tanganyika. Forms monogamous pairs. Perfect for smaller Tanganyika setups. Available with live arrival guarantee.

Cichlid TanganyikaCichlidaeFishJulie CichlidLive FishModerate CareSemi-Aggressivesite:tropical-fish-co

Care at a Glance

Scientific Name

Julidochromis transcriptus

Adult Size

7 cm

Lifespan

8 years

Care Level

Moderate

Temperament

Semi-aggressive

Temperature

24–27°C

pH Range

7.8–9

Hardness

10–25 dGH

Minimum Tank

60L

Diet

Cichlid pellets, frozen foods, spirulina

Water Parameters

Maintain these water conditions for optimal health and vibrant colors

Temperature

24–27°C

24°CIdeal Range27°C

pH Level

7.8–9

7.8Ideal Range9

Water Hardness

10–25 dGH

10 dGHIdeal Range25 dGH

The Masked Julie (Julidochromis transcriptus) is the smallest member of the Julidochromis genus, reaching just 7 cm. Endemic to the northwestern shore of Lake Tanganyika, this charming cichlid features distinctive black-and-white patterning and forms strong monogamous pair bonds. A cave spawner that is ideal for smaller Tanganyika setups.

Care at a Glance

Scientific Name	Julidochromis transcriptus
Family	Cichlidae
Origin	Lake Tanganyika, East Africa
Care Level	Moderate
Temperament	Semi-aggressive
Adult Size	7 cm
Minimum Tank Size	60 litres
Temperature	24–27°C
pH Range	7.8–9.0
Water Hardness	10–25 dGH
Diet	Cichlid pellets, frozen foods, spirulina
Lifespan	8 years
Tank Region	Middle
Group Size	Pair

Origin & Natural Habitat

Endemic to the northwestern shore of Lake Tanganyika, where it prefers areas with rocky substrates. In the wild, they feed on zooplankton and benthic invertebrates found in algae growth. Cave spawner that forms strong monogamous pair bonds.

Tank Setup & Water Parameters

Provide a minimum of 60 litres. Maintain water between 24–27°C with pH 7.8–9.0 and hardness 10–25 dGH. Create abundant rock caves and crevices for spawning and shelter.

Feeding Guide

Omnivore. Offer cichlid pellets, frozen foods, and spirulina. They feed on small invertebrates and zooplankton in the wild.

Compatible Tank Mates

Good companions include other Tanganyika cichlids of similar size and Synodontis petricola. Avoid Malawi cichlids, small fish, and shrimp. Consider the Kitumba Jumbo Sardine Cichlid or Yellow Sand Cichlid from our collection.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co?

At Tropical Fish Co, every fish is carefully selected and shipped with care across the UK. Live arrival guarantee, expert advice, and competitive prices. Order today.

Licensed Courier

Moved by UK carriers licensed to handle live animals

Trained Packing

Hand-packed with oxygen bags, poly box, heat pack

Live Arrival Guarantee

Replacement or refund — just tell us the same day

Pay Later Available

Klarna & PayPal Pay in 3 at checkout

How your fish gets to you

Dispatched Tuesday, delivered Wednesday — every order tracked and insured.

Dispatched on Tuesdays by a UK courier legally licensed to carry live animals. You’ll get a tracking number on dispatch morning and live updates through the afternoon.
Hand-packed in an insulated poly box with oxygen bags and (Oct–Apr) 40-hour heat packs. £20 flat rate covers any number of fish.
Covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee. Tell us the same day your fish arrive with a short unboxing video — replacement or refund, no arguments. Why we need a video
You need to be home.Live fish cannot be left on doorsteps or with neighbours — it kills them. Please only order for days when someone will be in to sign.

Read the full delivery & guarantee story