Cichlid
Care basics
Multies are among the smallest cichlids. They live in colonies on beds of empty snail shells, digging the sand around them and darting into a shell when threatened.
Give them plenty of shells and fine sand and they will breed in a colony. Tank mates should use other parts of the tank, such as Cyprichromis in open water.
Quick facts
| Scientific name | Neolamprologus multifasciatus |
|---|---|
| Group | Lake Tanganyika shell dweller |
| Native to | Lake Tanganyika |
| Adult size | Up to about 2 inches, not counting the tail |
| Tank size | A 20 gallon long is enough for a small colony |
| Temperature | 75 to 81 F |
| pH | 7.5 to 9.0, hard water |
| Temperament | Territorial around its shell but tiny, so it only threatens fish of its own size. |
Figures follow published species profiles such as Seriously Fish, and tank sizes are general guidance. Individual fish and local water vary, so test your water and ask your fish store about the specific fish you buy.
