Species profile
Julidochromis Marlieri
Julidochromis marlieri
Semi aggressive
Moderate care
200 L minimum aquarium
9–13 cm adult size
Bottom–mid
Minimum group: 2
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Rock-dwelling Lake Tanganyika cichlid that forms strong territories around crevices and caves. Compatible pairs need substantial structure.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
23–25 °C
pH
8–9
GH
15–25 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low–moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 2
Tank zone
Bottom–mid
Territory level
High
Predation risk
Shrimp fry
Bioload factor
2
Pair-forming and highly territorial around rockwork. Once a pair forms, surplus conspecifics can be attacked; sight breaks and complex crevices are essential.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
No / caution
Cave breeder
Yes
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Low
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Invertivore
Minimum aquarium volume
200 L
Minimum footprint
120 × 40 cm
Accepted scientific name
Julidochromis marlieri
Alternative names
Julidochromis Marlieri, Marlier’s Julie, Julidochromis marlieri
Native range
Endemic to Lake Tanganyika, East Africa.
Natural habitat
Rocky littoral habitat. Build stable rock piles with narrow crevices/caves and maintain very stable hard alkaline Tanganyika water.
Diet & feeding
Natural micro-predator/invertebrate feeder. Use quality small cichlid foods plus frozen crustaceans and insect larvae.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Sexual dimorphism is subtle; females are often larger/deeper-bodied. Vent/genital papilla examination is more dependable than colour.
Breeding
Crevice/cave-spawning substrate breeder. Compatible pairs lay adhesive eggs in sheltered rock cavities and both parents defend the brood.