Multies
Neolamprologus multifasciatus · Cichlidae
Also known as Multifasciatus, Shell-dwelling cichlid
Intermediate
The smallest cichlid in the world: a shell-dwelling Tanganyikan colony for a 60 cm tank.
In short: Multies need at least 75 L (20 US gal), water at 24–27 °C (75–81 °F) and pH 7.8–9. They are semi-aggressive, best kept in groups of 6 or more, and rated intermediate to keep.
Updated
- Minimum tank
- 75 L (20 US gal)
- Temperature
- 24–27 °C (75–81 °F)
- pH
- 7.8–9
- Adult size
- 4 cm (1.6 in)
- Group size
- 6+
Care requirements
- Minimum tank volume
- 75 L (20 US gal)
- Temperature
- 24–27 °C (75–81 °F)
- pH
- 7.8–9
- Hardness
- 10–25 dGH
- Lifespan
- 5–8 years
- Diet
- Carnivore — micro pellets, frozen brine, cyclops.
- Care level
- Intermediate
Origin & habitat
- Native region
- Lake Tanganyika
- Water type
- Freshwater
- Biotope
- Vast beds of empty snail shells over sand
- Natural conditions
- Hard alkaline water, deep sand and lots of escargot shells.
Behaviour & stocking
- Temperament
- Semi-aggressive
- Minimum group
- 6 fish
- Swims
- Bottom
- Good tank mates
- JulidochromisSmall Tanganyikan rock dwellers
- Avoid
- Soft waterLarge cichlidsShrimp
Breeding & difficulty
- Breeding difficulty
- Beginner
- Sexing
- Males are noticeably larger.
- Notes
- Breeds continuously in shells; colonies grow themselves.
- Common ailments
- IchNitrate stress in small volumes
Will it fit your tank?
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