Breeding Shell Dweller Cichlid (Neolamprologus Multifasciatus) In The Aquarium

Shell Dweller Cichlid, Multies Cichlid, Many-lined Cichlid

Occurrence

This is a freshwater species, endemic to Lake Tanganyika, that lives in fairly deep waters at the foot of the rocky coast. It occurs wherever Neothauma snails live, as their shells provide a unique "home" for this species.

External Appearance

This is the smallest shell breeder species, characterized by a creamy-blueish-white body color with thin brownish stripes running transversely along the sides of the body. These stripes also pass through the dorsal, anal, and caudal fins, with their edges being delicately bordered in yellowish. The iris of the eye is blue. The male is significantly larger than the female.

Disposition

In the wild, these fish form numerous colonies - the males establish their small territories, which usually occupy the area of several shells. They lure females to live in this area - each female occupies her own shell, which will be her "home" for life. This is a territorial species that defends its hideout and the area around it - so if we intend to keep a larger group we must make sure that we have a large enough aquarium, with a sufficient number of hideouts (shells). Another interesting behavior of the species is the way they dig up the substrate e.g. in order to turn / properly position the shell. The fish can be kept in a general aquarium with other species from Lake Tanganyika, e.g. with the princess from Burundi (Neolamprologus brichardi), Neolamprologus gracilis, smaller cichlids from the Julidochromis genus or cichlids from the Cyprichromis genus.

Aquarium

The Multistriped shell dweller prefers a typical aquarium for species from Lake Tanganyika - spacious, with a thick layer of sand at the bottom (the fish like to dig), a rocky wall, and numerous empty shells scattered on the bottom (preferably of snails from the Neothauma genus, but even native vineyard shells can be used). There should be more shells than fish.

Reproduction

This is an oviparous species that reproduces even in a general aquarium. However, it is best to breed it in a separate tank, with hard water, pH=8.5 and temperature 26-27ºC. Empty shells at the bottom are essential. Fish are best bred in a group with a predominance of females. The female chooses a hideout and lures the male by swimming at the entrance to the chosen shell. When she notices his interest, she enters the shell and deposits eggs. She leaves the shell, whereupon the male approaches and fertilizes the eggs. The female takes care of the eggs and brood and protects the territory - even driving away the male, not allowing him to approach the edge of the shell. Larvae hatch after a day, and are freely swimming in search of food after another 5-7 days. After another two to three weeks, the fish fry are driven from the shell by the female.