The Shell Dweller Cichlid, known for its unique behavior of dwelling in shells, is a small and captivating fish ideal for species-specific aquariums.
Overview
The Shell Dweller (Lamprologus ocellatus), native to Lake Tanganyika in Africa, is a small, fascinating cichlid known for its unique habit of living in empty shells. With a compact body and large eyes, this fish has a bold personality and shows a strong attachment to its chosen shell, making it a favorite among cichlid enthusiasts.
Tank Requirements
Shell Dwellers thrive in tanks of at least 40 liters, with a temperature range of 24-26°C, a pH between 7.8 and 9.0, and hardness (GH) of 10-20. A sandy substrate is essential for their natural digging behavior, and shells, such as those from escargot, are a must to allow them to establish territories. Minimal decoration and plenty of open space are ideal for these active fish.
Feeding and Diet
Shell Dwellers are omnivores, benefiting from a varied diet of high-quality pellets, flakes, and live or frozen foods like brine shrimp and daphnia. Feeding twice a day with small portions keeps them active and healthy.
Care and Maintenance
Routine tank maintenance is necessary, with weekly water changes of around 20-25% to keep the water quality stable. Regular monitoring of water parameters is recommended to ensure a healthy environment, as Shell Dwellers are sensitive to poor water quality.
Compatibility
These cichlids are best kept in species-specific tanks or with other small, non-aggressive Lake Tanganyika fish. They exhibit territorial behavior, especially around their shells, and are best kept in pairs or small groups. Avoid keeping them with larger or aggressive species.
Breeding
Shell Dwellers readily breed in captivity when provided with suitable shells. The female lays eggs inside the shell, where she protects the fry until they are free-swimming. A separate breeding tank with stable conditions can help increase the success rate of breeding.