Shelldwellers

1. Shelldweller Fish:

Shelldweller fish, also known as shell-dwelling cichlids, are a group of small-sized cichlid species native to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. Lake Tanganyika is the second-deepest freshwater lake in the world and is renowned for its incredible diversity of fish species, including numerous cichlids. The shelldwellers are particularly fascinating due to their unique behavior of living among empty snail shells or rocky crevices along the lake's rocky shores.

These fish have adapted to their habitat in a remarkable way, utilizing the natural shelters provided by empty snail shells or rocky hiding spots to protect themselves and establish territories. They exhibit intricate social structures, complex mating behaviors, and fascinating parental care, making them highly sought after by aquarium enthusiasts.

2. Types of Shelldweller Fish:

Here are some of the most popular species of shelldweller fish found in Lake Tanganyika and commonly kept in aquariums:

a) Neolamprologus multifasciatus (Multies):

• Multies are known as the "smallest cichlids in the world," and they live up to this reputation as they typically reach around 1 inch (2.5 cm) in size.

• Their natural habitat consists of sandy bottoms near the shoreline of Lake Tanganyika.

• They are non-aggressive and prefer living in empty snail shells for protection.

• Multies are not difficult to care for and can be housed in relatively small aquariums, making them suitable for nano or pico tanks.

• Due to their peaceful nature, they can be kept with other small, non-aggressive fish, but it's still essential to provide sufficient hiding spots for all tank inhabitants.

b) Neolamprologus brevis (Brevis):

• Brevis are slightly larger than Multies, usually reaching about 2 inches (5 cm) in length.

• In their natural habitat, Brevis inhabit sandy areas with rocky outcrops and crevices.

• They are known for their territorial behavior, especially during breeding and while raising fry.

• Brevis, like Multies, prefer empty snail shells as their preferred hiding spots in the aquarium.

• As with other shelldwellers, they can be kept in smaller aquariums, but larger tanks provide more space and stability.

c) Neolamprologus ocellatus (Ocellatus):

• Ocellatus cichlids are slightly larger, reaching up to 3 inches (7.5 cm) in length.

• They inhabit both rocky and sandy areas, seeking shelter in snail shells, rocky crevices, or even abandoned fish burrows.

• Ocellatus cichlids are popular among aquarium enthusiasts for their vibrant coloration and interesting social behaviors.

• They can be more aggressive than Multies and Brevis, especially when breeding, so it's essential to provide enough hiding spots and territories for each fish.

3. Care of Shelldweller Fish:

Proper care is essential to ensure the well-being and thriving of shelldweller fish in your aquarium. Here's a comprehensive guide to their care:

a) Tank Size:

• Shelldwellers are small fish, so they can be comfortably housed in aquariums ranging from 10 to 20 gallons.

• While smaller tanks are acceptable, larger aquariums provide more stable water conditions and ample space for establishing territories and hiding spots.

b) Substrate and Decor:

• A sandy substrate is crucial for shelldweller fish as it mimics their natural environment and allows them to dig and burrow, creating their shelters.

• Provide various empty snail shells or rocky crevices in the tank. The shells act as natural shelters and also serve as breeding sites for the fish.

c) Water Parameters:

• Shelldwellers are native to Lake Tanganyika, which has alkaline water conditions with a pH range of 7.8 to 9.0.

• The temperature in the aquarium should ideally be maintained between 75 to 80°F (24 to 27°C).

• Water hardness should be relatively high, mimicking the hardness of their natural habitat.

d) Filtration and Water Changes:

• A good filtration system is essential to maintain high water quality. Cichlids are sensitive to ammonia and nitrite, so a reliable filter will help keep these levels in check.

• Regular water changes are necessary to remove accumulated waste and maintain stable water parameters. Aim for weekly water changes of about 20-25%.

e) Diet:

• Shelldweller fish are omnivores and will eat a varied diet in the wild, including small invertebrates, algae, and detritus.

• In captivity, provide them with high-quality cichlid pellets as the staple diet.

• Supplement their diet with frozen or live foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia, and small crustaceans to offer a balanced and nutritious diet.

f) Social Structure:

• Shelldweller fish exhibit interesting social behaviors and complex social structures.

• To disperse aggression and promote natural social interactions, keep them in groups of at least 6 individuals of the same species.

• Including multiple hiding spots and shells will help reduce aggression, as each fish can claim its territory.

g) Breeding:

• Breeding behavior is one of the most fascinating aspects of shelldweller fish.

• Females lay their eggs inside empty snail shells or crevices, and the male fertilizes them.

• The female will then guard the eggs and fry, while the male protects the territory from intruders.

• Providing ample hiding spots and shells is crucial for successful breeding and fry survival.

In conclusion, shelldweller fish are captivating and unique aquarium inhabitants, offering hobbyists a glimpse into the fascinating behaviors of fish in their natural habitats. With proper care, a suitable environment, and an understanding of their behaviors, shelldweller fish can thrive and provide an exciting and rewarding experience for aquarists. As always, make sure to stay up-to-date with the latest care information and consult experienced aquarists for the best practices in keeping these remarkable cichlids in captivity.