Fishician®Diet
Omnivore – small cichlid pellets, mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, crushed snails
Aquarium species profile
Julidochromis Ornatus
Julidochromis ornatus · Africa (Lake Tanganyika — northern end, Burundi/Zaire)
Minimum tank30 gal
Adult size3.5"
Care levelEasy
TemperamentSemi-Aggressive
Temperature75–82°F
pH range7.8–9.0
Compatible tank mates
Other Tanganyika cichlids (shell dwellers, Neolamprologus), similar-sized fish
Tank mates to avoid
Very aggressive cichlids, fish smaller than 1.5 inches
Care notes
Yellow and white body with striking dark markings — one of the most attractively patterned Julidochromis. Monogamous pair-bonders; mates for life and both parents guard eggs and fry. Hardy and one of the easier Tanganyika cichlids. Multiple color morphs exist. Great introduction to Tanganyika cichlids.
Check the whole aquarium. Tank size alone does not establish compatibility. Confirm adult size, water overlap, social grouping, territory, diet, and the individual animals before stocking.