Shell Dwelling Cichlids
Live Fish
Shipping & Returns
All live fish are shipped using NZPost overnight services with authority to leave (no signature).
We cannot guarantee the overnight services, this is a service that we/you pay for; but is not guaranteed.
We DO NOT offer returns on any alive animal.
Above are key points of our policy, Click Here to read our full shipping policy.
Dead On Arrival (DOA) Cover*
- DOA must be reported within 2 hours of delivery.
- Bags must remain sealed (do not remove rubber band or tape)
- Photos & Videos must be supplied this can be emailed or sent through live chat; including your order No. (minimum 3 clear images, showing dead fish & sealed bag)
- DOA does not apply once the bags are opened & fish have been released.
- DOA does not apply to any Rural (RD) address.
Introducing New Fish
Follow these steps to minimize stress and ensure a smooth transition for your new fish!
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Float the Bag: Place the sealed bag containing the new fish in the tank. This equalizes the temperature between bag and tank water.
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Open and Add Tank Water Gradually: After about 5 minutes, open the bag and add a small amount of aquarium water into it every 5 minutes for 15–30 minutes. This helps the fish acclimate to the tank’s water chemistry.
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Wait 15–30 Minutes: Let the fish adjust to the water temperature and chemistry gradually in the bag.
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Release Fish: Gently release the fish into the tank without pouring the original bag water in.
Shell Dwelling Cichlids
Neolamprologus Brevis (Shell Dwellers)
Common Names: Shell Dwellers, Shellies
Scientific Families: Primarily Neolamprologus, Lamprologus, and Altolamprologus
Origin: Lake Tanganyika, East Africa
Size: 1–2.5 inches (2.5–6.5 cm)
Lifespan: 5–8 years
Temperament: Territorial, aggressive during breeding
Difficulty Level: Intermediate
Natural Habitat
Shell Dwellers are found in the sandy, rocky shores of Lake Tanganyika, where they colonize empty snail shells (usually Neothauma tanganyicense). These shells serve as their homes, breeding sites, and protection.
Species Examples
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Neolamprologus multifasciatus – “Multies”; extremely social, one of the smallest cichlids.
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Neolamprologus similis – Similar to Multies but slightly more territorial.
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Lamprologus ocellatus – More colorful, known for vivid golden hues and blue spotting.
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Altolamprologus compressiceps “Shell” – More predatory and unique in body shape
Tank Setup
Décor:
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1–3 shells per fish. Escargot shells or ocean turbo shells are great alternatives.
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Rocks to break sight lines.
Water Conditions:
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Temperature: 75–80°F (24–27°C)
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pH: 7.5–9.0 (alkaline)
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Hardness: 8–20 dGH
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Ammonia/Nitrites: 0 ppm
Filtration:
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Gentle yet efficient filtration. Avoid strong current.
Behavior & Compatibility
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Highly territorial, especially males. They establish and defend "shell plots."
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Can be kept in colonies if sufficient space and shells are provided.
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Best kept species-only or with other Tanganyikan cichlids like Julidochromis or Cyprichromis.
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Not compatible with large or aggressive tankmates.
Diet
Diet Type: Omnivorous
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High-quality flakes and pellets
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Live or frozen foods (brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms)
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Avoid overfeeding and maintain water quality.
Breeding
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Maternal mouthbrooders in some species, but most are substrate breeders.
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Females lay eggs inside their shell and guard the fry.
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Fry can be raised in the same tank if adults are not overcrowded or stressed.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fascinating natural behavior | Territorial aggression |
| Easy to breed | Sensitive to water changes |
| Small size = smaller tanks | Need specific shell decor |
*Product Photo is for reference only (Photo of actual fish as @ 14/07/23). Exact size and colour may vary, if required, please feel free to contact us for exact photos prior to purchase.
