Multifasciatus Shell Dweller

Neolamprologus multifasciatus

Also known as: Multies, Shellie

The world's smallest cichlid — a Tanganyikan that lives and breeds inside empty snail shells.

Water

Freshwater

Temperature

76–82°F

pH

7.8–9

Hardness

10–20 dGH

Max size

2 in

Min tank

20 gal

Temperament

Semi-aggressive

Social

Colony (4+)

Swim level

Bottom

Diet

Carnivore

Care level

Intermediate

Lifespan

4-6 years

Breeding

Cave-spawner

Suitability

Common

Origin

Lake Tanganyika, Africa

Multies form fascinating colonies, each fish defending a shell home and excavating sand around it. They need hard alkaline water and a pile of empty escargot-style shells.