Remarks: Julidochromis transcriptus is a Tanganyikan cichlid that reaches 3″ in length, making it one of the smaller “Julies.” There is some debate over the true identity of this species, as it has been considered a variant of Julidochromis marlieri as well as simply Julidochromis sp. “Gombe.” Further analysis may reveal how it fits into the genus.

They sport a torpedo-shaped body covered in a black vertical stripe pattern, with a nice mask over their eyes. They inhabit rocky areas of the lake and can often be seen hovering upside-down below a rocky outcropping. Julies make for an excellent candidate for a breeder looking to try Tanganyikan cichlids, as they are cave spawners and tend to produce quite a few fry, which they raise for several weeks. Sexing is nearly impossible, so young groups should be kept together until they pair off.

Scientific Name: Julidochromis transcriptus “Bemba”

Common Name:

Max Size: 3″

pH: 7.5-8.6

Hardness: Hard

Temperature: 70-82

Aggressiveness: Semi-Aggressive

Region of Origin: Lake Tanganyika, Africa

Captive Bred or Wild: Captive Bred

Diet: Flake or pellet, frozen and live food

Compatibility: Lake Tanganyikan cichlids

Tank Mate Options:

• Neolamprologus leleupi
• Neolamprologus tretocephalus
• Synodontis multipunctatus