Lamprologus Multifasciatus Tanganyikan African Cichlids 5cm

Overview

The Multi Shell Dweller, Neolamprologus multifasciatus, is one of the smallest cichlids known, finely barred in cream and brown with a bold character far bigger than its body. It lives in colonies inside empty snail shells, digging and rearranging the sand constantly to suit itself. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika, it suits keepers wanting a fascinating species tank in modest space.

• Adult Size: Around 4.5 cm (1.8 in) for males; females about 3 cm
• Lifespan: 5–8 years

Origin

• Native to: Lake Tanganyika, East Africa (endemic)
• Habitat: Sandy shell beds in deeper shoreline water

Feeding

• Diet: Carnivorous, micro-predator
• Preferred Foods: Brine shrimp, cyclops, daphnia, small granules, crushed flake, mysis
• Feeding Habits: Small feeds once or twice daily; food must be tiny

Tank Mates

• Best with: Its own colony, Cyprichromis, Paracyprichromis, Julidochromis in large tanks
• Avoid: Other shell dwellers, Mbuna, large or boisterous fish

Aggression & Behaviour

• Temperament: Peaceful within a colony; fearless towards intruders
• Territoriality: Defends its shell and a small surrounding area vigorously

Experience Level

• Difficulty: Beginner to Intermediate
• Challenges: Needs hard water, fine sand and plenty of spare shells

Water Parameters

• Water Type: Freshwater, hard and alkaline
• Temperature: 24–27°C (75–81°F)
• pH: 7.5–9.0
• Hardness: 8–25 dGH
• Flow: Slow to moderate
• Tank Size: Minimum 40 litres for a pair; 80 litres or more for a colony

Final Notes

Start with six or more to form a colony and supply at least two or three empty shells per fish over a deep bed of fine sand. They excavate craters around the shells, so avoid rooted plants. Breeding is easy: females spawn inside the shell, fry appear after about a week and are tolerated in the colony for weeks. Males are larger with a reddish tint to the dorsal. A thriving colony is captivating.