Our Guide To Keeping Shell-Dwelling Tanganyika Cichlid Fish

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Neolamprologus multifasciatus
   • Common name: Shell-Dwelling Tanganyika Cichlid
   • Family: Cichlidae
   • Origin: Lake Tanganyika in Africa
   • Adult length: 5 cm
   • Lifespan: 5 to 8 years

2. Tank Setup:

   • Shell-Dwelling Tanganyika Cichlids prefer a tank with sandy substrate and plenty of empty shells for them to claim as territory and breeding sites.
   • Provide multiple shells per fish to allow them to establish their own territories.

3. Water Parameters:

   • Shell-Dwelling Tanganyika Cichlids thrive in alkaline water conditions with a pH range of 7.8 to 9.0.
   • Keep the water temperature between 24 to 27°C (75 to 80°F).

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • A moderate filtration system is recommended to maintain water quality without creating too much water flow, as these fish inhabit shallow, calm waters in their natural habitat.

5. Diet:

   • Shell-Dwelling Tanganyika Cichlids are primarily micro-predators, feeding on small invertebrates and zooplankton.
   • Offer them a diet consisting of small, high-quality pellets or flakes supplemented with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp and daphnia.

6. Tank mates:

   • Due to their territorial nature, it's best to keep Shell-Dwelling Tanganyika Cichlids in a species-only tank or with other small, peaceful Tanganyika cichlids.
   • Avoid keeping them with larger or more aggressive fish that may intimidate or outcompete them for resources.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • Shell-Dwelling Tanganyika Cichlids are highly territorial and will fiercely defend their chosen shells.
   • They form social hierarchies within their colonies, with dominant individuals claiming the best shells and breeding sites.