Multi Shell Dweller (Neolamprologus multifasciatus)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameNeolamprologus multifasciatus

FamilyCichlidae

Also known asMulties, Multifasciatus, Dwarf Shell Dweller

Care levelModerate

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentSemi Aggressive

Dietcarnivore

Adult size2 in

Minimum tank size10 gallons

Water parametersTemp 75-81°F, pH 7.8-9.0, GH 10-20 dGH

Appearance

Tiny tan-grey fish with faint vertical bars; lives in and defends empty snail shells, building shell middens.

Difficulty and care for the Multi Shell Dweller

Moderate

Origin and habitat

Lake Tanganyika, Africa

Keeper notes

World's smallest cichlid; colony-living and only locally territorial around its shell. Peaceful in a species tank but feisty for its size.

Log Multi Shell Dweller in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Multi Shell Dweller alongside everything else in your reef.

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