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Lake Tanganyika · Species profile

Similis Shell Dweller care

Defends its shell with real spirit, but it is tiny and only threatens fish of its own size.

  • Up to about 2 inches, not counting the tailAdult size
  • 75 to 81 FTemperature

Food

Mostly small live and frozen foods, with dried foods only as a supplement.

Feeding guide

Tank mates

Cyprichromis, small Julidochromis, fairy cichlids in a larger tank.

Compatibility guide

Best setup

A 20 gallon long is enough for a small colony. Fine sand and plenty of empty snail shells, at least one or two per fish, with hard alkaline water. A few rocks can mark off territories.

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Care basics

Neolamprologus similis looks much like the multie, with fine bars that run onto the head. It lives in colonies on shell beds.

Give it fine sand and plenty of empty shells. It can share a tank with Cyprichromis or small rock dwellers that use other areas.

Quick facts

Scientific nameNeolamprologus similis
GroupLake Tanganyika shell dweller
Native toLake Tanganyika
Adult sizeUp to about 2 inches, not counting the tail
Tank sizeA 20 gallon long is enough for a small colony
Temperature75 to 81 F
pH7.5 to 9.0, hard water
TemperamentDefends its shell with real spirit, but it is tiny and 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.

Ozzy the oscar holding a shopping bag
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Shop the Similis Shell Dweller setup

The tank, food, filter, heater and decor that suit Similis Shell Dweller, based on the care notes above.

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Gear We Recommend

Gear for Similis Shell Dweller

All gear
Best for: Geophagus, eels and bichirs

Fine natural sand

Safe for sand sifters and burrowing oddballs.

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Best for: Rams, apistos and dwarfs

Micro pellets

Small enough for little mouths and sinks slowly so everyone eats.

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Best for: Quarantine and fry tanks

Sponge filter and air pump

Gentle, safe filtration for baby fish and a quarantine tank.

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Best for: Rams, apistos and other dwarfs

29 gallon tank

A great first tank for a pair of dwarf cichlids in a planted setup.

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Links open Amazon search results so you can compare current prices. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.