Julidochromis marlieri

Family: Cichlidae

Julidochromis marlieri — a Cichlidae from Africa. Reaches 9.8–14.3 cm; keep at 24–28 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
24–28 °C
pH
8.5–9.2
GH hardness
8–14 dGH
Adult length
9.8–14.3 cm
Minimum tank
245 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Varies by species; many are territorial when breeding
Origin
Africa

Species overview

A Cichlidae species native to Africa: Julidochromis marlieri lives bottom-dwelling over lakes and slow rivers with structure. Varies by species; many are territorial when breeding. Adults reach 9.8–14.3 cm. It is one of the aquarium-kept Julidochromis species we profile, alongside Julidochromis transcriptus.

Native biotope

Habitat
Lakes and slow rivers with structure
Flow
Still to gentle current
Dissolved O₂
Moderate

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Sand with rock piles
Hardscape
Stones, caves and broken lines of sight
Plants
Hardy species that tolerate digging

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Pairs or singles with defined territory
Diet
Omnivore to carnivore; quality prepared foods
Recommended tankmates
  • Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with
  • Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Often striking; males larger and brighter
Breeding method
Substrate or cave spawner with parental care

Frequently asked questions

Is Julidochromis marlieri easy to keep?

A moderate-level species: varies by species; many are territorial when breeding; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.

What temperature and water chemistry does Julidochromis marlieri need?

Hold 24–28 °C and keep it stable — 24–28 °C curated husbandry range. Heater required for stable tropical warmth.

How big does Julidochromis marlieri get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 9.8–14.3 cm; it is bottom-dwelling. Plan for at least 245 litres.

What does Julidochromis marlieri eat?

Omnivore to carnivore; quality prepared foods. Feed two small meals a day rather than one large one.

Can Julidochromis marlieri live with other fish?

Yes, with care. Varies by species; many are territorial when breeding — pair it with Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs and skip Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Julidochromis marlieri come from?

Its home waters are Africa — lakes and slow rivers with structure, with still to gentle current.

Does Julidochromis marlieri jump?

Low escape risk, but a lid is cheap insurance.

How does Julidochromis marlieri breed?

In the aquarium: substrate or cave spawner with parental care. Often striking; males larger and brighter.