Scientific name: Julidochromis marlieri 		Common name: Marlieri cichlid 		Family: Cichlidae 		Usual size in fish tanks: 12 - 15 cm (4.72 - 5.91 inch) 		0 14    		Recommended pH range for the species: 8 - 8.9 		Recommended water hardness (dGH): 18 - 30°N (321.43 - 535.71ppm) 		0°C 	32°F 30°C 	86°F    		Recommended temperature: 22 - 25 °C (71.6 - 77°F) 		The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning 		Where the species comes from: Africa 		Temperament to its own species: aggressive/territorial 		Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful 		Usual place in the tank: Middle levels 		Food and feeding In the wild Marlieri cichlid prey on small aquatic snails, in the aquarium their diet should consist of meaty foods like mysis, Cyclops and brine shrimp. For the larger specimens chopped freshwater shrimp is also ideal.  Origin Africa; this species is found in Lake Tanganyika.  Sexing It is believed that the females are slightly larger than the males.  Breeding It is best to buy these fish as a group and allow a pair to form, when this has happened, remove the other fish. They are secretive cave spawners so prepare the tank with rock work and caves ready for the spawnings. When the pair start to defend their territory it is likely that eggs have, or will be laid. Adding newly hatched brine shrimp will increase the chances of the fry surviving.  Lifespan The expected life span of Julidochromis marlieri is 5-8 years.  Short description To get the best coloration from Julidochromis marlieri add plenty of rock work to the tank. Use a fine substrate to prevent any fry from getting trapped in larger gravel pieces.  Picture Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.