Gold Ocellated Shell Dweller (Lamprologus ocellatus) CareSheet

The Gold Ocellated Shell Dweller (Lamprologus ocellatus) is a tiny shell-dwelling cichlid endemic to Africa's Lake Tanganyika's deep shoreline sections. It has grown more popular in the aquarium hobby in recent years, although it is still rather uncommon because to its sluggish development rate and tiny spawn size. It eggs in the empty shells of Neothauma tanganyicense snails in the wild. When in mature breeding state, this fish's overall colour is white or silver with a lot of blue and gold tints. Males are substantially bigger than females, and their dorsal and anal fins have gold edging. This edging is white in females.

In a sparsely decorated aquarium, the Gold Ocellated Shell Dweller will flourish. It should be given with multiple empty shells, which do not have to be of the Neothauma tanganyicense species, since it is a shell-dweller. Mature fish will often claim and defend a small region around their home shells. Because this cichlid enjoys digging, a deep sand substrate bed should be supplied if feasible. This species is modest in size, yet it is very territorial when it comes to its own kind and related fish. During spawning, territoriality is usually at its height. The Gold Ocellated Shell Dweller should not be housed with dwarf shrimp or other tiny, sensitive invertebrates. If spawning is desired, other species should be kept to a minimum or avoided entirely unless the aquarium is large enough with enough of cover and decor.

The Gold Ocellated Shell Dweller is a fuss-free feeder. Vegi flake food, frozen, and live meaty items of high quality will all be welcomed. This species should not be fed dry items entirely since quality and diversity are the keys to a diet that will guarantee that it maintains maximum health and color.

Requirements for keeping Lamprologus ocellatus

Temperature: 75° - 81° F
pH: 7.5 - 9.0
KH: 8 - 25 KH
Minimum tank size: 10-15 gallons for an adult pair.
Origin: Tank-Bred, but indigenous to Lake Tanganyika, Africa
Average adult size: 2.4 inches for males, 1.4 inches for females

Species spotlight Lamprologus Ocellatus Gold

FAQ's

What is Lamprologus ocellatus?

Lamprologus ocellatus is a small shell-dwelling cichlid species endemic to Lake Tanganyika in Africa. Also known as the spotted shell-dweller or gold ocellatus, it gets its name from the beautiful white-rimmed black spots that cover its body.

What is their natural habitat?

In the wild, Lamprologus ocellatus lives exclusively in empty gastropod shells within sandy or rocky parts of Lake Tanganyika. Each fish occupies its own shell for shelter and breeding.

How do gold ocellatus behave?

Lamprologus ocellatus are highly territorial, with each male defending his shell and the surrounding area aggressively. Females provide sole parental care to the eggs and fry.

What do spotted shell-dwellers eat?

In their native habitat, L. ocellatus feed on plankton and detritus. In home aquariums they will accept flakes, pellets and meaty foods like brine shrimp.

What is their ideal tank setup?

Lamprologus ocellatus need an aquarium of at least 20 gallons containing a sandy substrate and plenty of empty shells. Each fish needs its own shell.

How big do gold ocellatus cichlids grow?

In captivity, Lamprologus ocellatus typically reaches about 2-3 inches in length when fully grown and cared for properly.