Golden Julie
Julidochromis ornatus
Water Parameters
About
Elegant cichlid with elongated body and golden and black horizontal stripes. Unique behavior of swimming along rock surfaces inverted.
Behavior & Temperament
Forms strong, territorial monogamous pairs. No head‑down swimming along rocky surfaces. Aggressive toward conspecifics but tolerant of other species.
Feeding
Omnivore with carnivorous tendency. Accepts flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia and microworms. In the wild, feeds on invertebrates in rock crevices.
Breeding
Spawns on rocky substrate. Lays eggs in crevices and on rock surfaces. Monogamous pair protects territory and raises the fry together.
Care Notes
Rocky décor with many surfaces and crevices. Keep in pairs. Alkaline, hard water. Parameter stability is important.
Compatibility
Compatible with other non‑conspecific Tanganyikan cichlids. Good combination with Neolamprologus and shell‑dwellers. Avoid other Julidochromis.
Quick Summary
| Scientific Name | Julidochromis ornatus |
|---|---|
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Category | Fish |
| Care Level | Intermediate |
| Water Type | Freshwater |
| Max Size | 8.0 cm (3.1") |
| Min Tank | 150 L (40 gal) |
| Min Group | 1+ |
| Diet | Omnivore with carnivorous tendency. Accepts flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia and microworms. In the wild, feeds on invertebrates in rock crevices. |
| Temperament | Forms strong, territorial monogamous pairs. No head‑down swimming along rocky surfaces. Aggressive toward conspecifics but tolerant of other species. |
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