Ocellatus Shell Dweller (Neolamprologus ocellatus)

Fish in the family Cichlidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.

Ocellatus Shell Dweller

Quick facts

Scientific nameNeolamprologus ocellatus
FamilyCichlidae
Also known asOcellatus, Gold Occie, Lamprologus ocellatus
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentSemi Aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Adult size2.5 in
Minimum tank size10 gallons
Water parametersTemp 75-81°F, pH 7.8-9.0, GH 10-20 dGH

Appearance

Stocky little cichlid, gold or 'blue' line, with an eye-spot (ocellus) on the gill cover; commands a single shell.

Difficulty and care for the Ocellatus Shell Dweller

Moderate

Origin and habitat

Lake Tanganyika, Africa

Keeper notes

Bold and feisty for its size; strongly territorial around its shell but harmless to larger non-bottom tankmates.

Log Ocellatus 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 Ocellatus Shell Dweller alongside everything else in your reef.