−14%
Easy
Blue Ocellated Shell-Dweller (Lamprologus ocellatus)
24–27°C · pH 7.5–9 · 40L
£16.33£18.99
A small but bold Lake Tanganyika shell-dwelling cichlid that claims empty shells, digs sand and defends a miniature territory.
Adult size is the maximum length this species reaches at full maturity (scientific sources). The livestock you receive will be younger and smaller — pick a size variant above for the actual shipping size. Photos are AI-enhanced, so the animal may show subtle colour or marking differences.
Lamprologus ocellatus
Ocellated Shell-Dweller bond and breed in male/female pairs — buying a pair gives them the social structure they need.
A small but bold Lake Tanganyika shell-dwelling cichlid that claims empty shells, digs sand and defends a miniature territory.
Adult size is the maximum length this species reaches at full maturity (scientific sources). The livestock you receive will be younger and smaller — pick a size variant above for the actual shipping size. Photos are AI-enhanced, so the animal may show subtle colour or marking differences.
Cichlids are one of the most diverse fish families in the hobby. From tiny apistogrammas to massive oscars, this guide covers the basics of keeping them well.
Maintain these water conditions for optimal health and vibrant colors
Ocellated Shell-Dweller (Lamprologus ocellatus) is a small Lake Tanganyika cichlid with outsized behaviour. It is also commonly treated as Neolamprologus ocellatus, but the important care facts are shell-bed habitat, hard alkaline water and territorial behaviour around chosen shells.
| Adult size | Up to about 5.8 cm total length |
|---|---|
| Minimum aquarium | 40 litres for a small planned group; more space is easier |
| Water | 24-27°C, pH 7.5-9.0, hard alkaline water |
| Diet | Micro pellets, frozen foods and fine live foods |
| Temperament | Small but semi-aggressive around shells |
Use fine sand and several empty shells per fish. Territory is centred on shells, so plan shell spacing carefully and avoid delicate bottom dwellers that will be pushed out of the shell bed.
Livestock is packed for delivery by a licensed live-animal courier and covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee when the policy conditions are followed.
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