Breeding Golden Julie (Julidochromis Ornatus) In The Aquarium

Location

This freshwater fish is endemic species to Tanganyika Lake.

Body description

Body of the fish is fusiform and elongated. Colour of the body is yellow. There are dark and light horizontal stripes on the sides of the fish (from the back to the lateral line). There is almost no sexual dimorphism and the sex of the fish is difficult to distinguish. Male is more colourful than female during the spawning season.

Temperament and behaviour

This species lives in shallow, stony and rocky areas. This is aggressive species. It stubbornly defends own territory towards own species and other fish. These fish swim in a specific way – their belly is always directed to the rock or stone surface. So you shouldn’t be surprised when they begin to swim belly-up.

Aquarium decoration

The aquarium should include a lot of caves, rocks, stones, dimmed light. The plants aren’t necessary. The fish are very sensitive to pH fluctuations – especially to decrease. These fish prefer clean water with effective filtration system. A partial water changes should be systematically done.

Breeding

This is an oviparous species. The fish spawn in pairs or in groups (single male and few females). Female lays eggs in previously prepared hideout (usually it is cave). Female takes care for the eggs and fry, male protects territory. The eggs hatch after 1 week. The fry starts to swim and feed 1 day later. The parents take care for offspring for the long time.