Golden Julie is a small fish, scientifically known as Julidochromis ornatus.
It’s found only in certain parts of Lake Tanganyika, specifically the extreme north and south shorelines. This fish lives in rocky areas.
Golden Julies are usually alone and territorial. They eat tiny organisms called microorganisms.
Breeding these fish in captivity has led to changes in their colors and behaviors.
Unfortunately, there haven’t been many new imported Golden Julies recently, so most of the available ones don’t have their original traits or colors.
For keeping them as pets, it’s best to keep them in pairs inside an aquarium that’s at least 60 centimeters (about 2 feet) long.
Golden Julie Interesting Facts
- Golden Julies are small, territorial fish found in specific parts of Lake Tanganyika.
- They feed on microorganisms and grow up to 3.3 inches (8.5 centimeters) long.
- Captive breeding has led to changes in their colors and behaviors.
- Ideal aquarium conditions: 60 cm long, pH between 8.0 to 9.0, water temperature between 71.6°F to 75.2°F (22°C to 24°C).
Golden Julie Habitat
Golden Julie is native to the northern part of Lake Tanganyika in Africa, and another variety is found in the southern part near Mpulungu.
This fish lives in freshwater and swims near the bottom of the lake.
It prefers water with a pH between 8.0 to 9.0, hardness from 9 to 19 dH, and depths usually ranging from 6 to 12 meters (20 to 40 feet).
The ideal water temperature for this fish is between 71.6°F to 75.2°F (22°C to 24°C), which is typical for tropical environments around latitudes of 3°S to 10°S.
| Water Temperature: | 71.6°F to 75.2°F (22°C to 24°C) |
| Water pH: | 8.0 to 9.0 pH |
| Water Hardness: | 9 to 19 dH |
Golden Julie’s Physical Characteristics
Size: 3.3 inches (8.5 centimeters)
Golden Julie grows up to 3.3 inches (8.5 centimeters) long.
This is measured using the standard length method, which measures from the tip of the snout to the end of the tail base.
Golden Julie Scientific Classification
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Actinopterygii |
| Order: | Cichliformes |
| Family: | Cichlidae |
| Genus: | Julidochromis |
| Scientific Name: | Julidochromis ornatus |
| Also Known As: | Golden Julie |
| Conservation Status: | Least Concern |