About Neolamprologus Multifasciatus

The Neolamprologus multifasciatus, or “Multies,” are among the smallest cichlids in the world. Native to Lake Tanganyika in Africa, they’ve become a favorite in the aquarium hobby for their fascinating social structure and shell-dwelling lifestyle.

They form colonies, dig in the substrate, and use empty snail shells for both shelter and breeding. Watching them interact is one of the most rewarding aquarium experiences.

Care Guide

• Scientific Name: Neolamprologus multifasciatus
• Common Name: Shell Dweller, Multies
• Origin: Lake Tanganyika, Africa
• Size: 1.5–2 inches
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive (colony behavior)
• Lifespan: 8–10 years
• Difficulty: Intermediate

Tank Requirements

• Tank Size: 10+ gallons for a colony (larger preferred)
• Water Temperature: 75–80°F (24–27°C)
• pH Range: 7.8–9.0 (alkaline, hard water)
• Substrate: Sand, with lots of empty shells (at least 1 per fish, extras recommended)
• Décor: Open sandy areas, shells, rock piles

Diet & Feeding

Shell Dwellers are omnivores. Offer a varied diet of:
✔️ High-quality cichlid pellets and flakes
✔️ Frozen/live foods (brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms)
✔️ Occasional veggie-based foods for balance

Tankmates

Multies do best in species-only tanks or with other Tanganyikan dwarf cichlids. Possible companions include:

• Julidochromis
• Cyprichromis
• Other small Tanganyikan cichlids

⚠️ Avoid large or aggressive cichlids that may outcompete or eat them.

Why Choose Shell Dwellers?

✔️ Fascinating natural colony behavior
✔️ Compact size, perfect for smaller aquariums
✔️ Long-lived and hardy in the right water conditions
✔️ Unique fish rarely seen in community aquariums

FAQ

Q: How many shells do I need?
A: Provide at least one shell per fish, plus extras to allow digging and territory changes.

Q: Can they live in community tanks?
A: Best in species tanks or with other Tanganyikan fish—avoid mixing with unrelated aggressive species.

Q: Do they breed easily?
A: Yes, given shells and good conditions, they often form breeding colonies.

Closing Section

Bring the Fascinating World of Shell Dwellers to Your Aquarium
The Neolamprologus multifasciatus offers one of the most unique aquarium experiences with their shell-dwelling lifestyle, colony dynamics, and playful digging behavior. Perfect for aquarists who want something different.