Zebra Shell Dweller (Neolamprologus similis) CareSheet
This cichlid that lives on shells has captivating striping and a fiery attitude! The Zebra Shell Dweller (Neolamprologus similis) 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. This fish is white or silver in hue with brown to plack vertical stripes. Males mature at a faster rate than females.The Zebra Shell Dweller will flourish in a minimalist aquarium. 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 Zebra 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 aquascaping.
The Zebra Shell Dweller is a fuss-free feeder. Dry, freeze-dried plankton, vegi flakes, 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 Neolamprologus similis
Temperature: 75° - 81° F
pH: 7.5 - 9.0
KH: 8 - 25 dKH
Minimum tank size: 10-15 gallons for an adult pair
Origin: Indigenous to Lake Tanganyika, Africa
Average adult size: 2 inches for males, 1.5 inches for females
Neolamprologus similis
