Striped Shell Dweller
Neolamprologus similis
Also known as: Striped Shell Dweller, Similis Shell Dweller
Origin: Lake Tanganyika, Africa
Water Parameters
Quick Stats
- Max Size
- 4 cm
- Min Tank
- 60 L
- Lifespan
- 5-8
- Swimming Level
- bottom
- Schooling
- No
- Diet
- carnivore
- Temperament
- semi-aggressive; territorial around shells but harmless to non-threatening species
About
The Striped Shell Dweller is one of Lake Tanganyika's charming and diminutive shell dwellers, rarely exceeding 4cm. It forms loose colonies in nature, with each fish guarding its own shell. In aquaria, a group of 6-10 individuals provides fascinating natural behaviour, including territorial disputes, spawning within shells, and fry-guarding.
Care Guide
Water: 24-27°C, pH 7.8-9.0, hard alkaline water; frequent small water changes essential in small tanks. Tank: Minimum 60L; fine sand substrate with at least 2-3 Neothauma shells per fish. Feeding: Micro-sized foods — crushed cichlid pellets, frozen baby brine shrimp, cyclops, and daphnia. Behaviour: Colony-forming; each fish fiercely guards its shell; entertaining intraspecific interactions. Compatibility: Species tank or Tanganyika community with similarly small, peaceful species.
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