Ocellatus Shell Dweller

Lamprologus ocellatus

Also known as: Lamprologus ocellatus, Gold Ocellatus

A feisty shell-dwelling cichlid with huge personality that will even charge your hand.

Water

Freshwater

Temperature

75–80°F

pH

7.8–9

Hardness

10–20 dGH

Max size

2.2 in

Min tank

20 gal

Temperament

Semi-aggressive

Social

Pair

Swim level

Bottom

Diet

Carnivore

Care level

Beginner

Lifespan

5-8 years

Breeding

Cave spawner

Suitability

Common

Origin

Lake Tanganyika

Keep a pair or one male with a few females in a 20 gallon long or larger tank with fine sand and extra empty shells. Very territorial for its size, so avoid other bottom dwellers. Needs hard, alkaline water.