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Brevis Shell Dweller
Neolamprologus brevis
📍 Lake Tanganyika, Africa
Neolamprologus brevis is a small, colorful cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika that inhabits empty shells on the lake bottom. These diminutive fish are popular in the aquarium hobby for their fascinating shell-dwelling behavior and striking coloration. They are relatively hardy and make excellent additions to specialized shell dweller setups.
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Care Guide
Diet
Feed high-quality micro pellets, small frozen foods like brine shrimp and daphnia, and occasional vegetable matter. Feed small amounts 2-3 times daily, only what can be consumed in a few minutes. These tiny cichlids have small mouths and require appropriately sized food.
Behavior
Brevis are highly territorial and will aggressively defend their chosen shell homes, especially during breeding. They are active foragers that spend much time sifting substrate and exploring their territory. Males are more aggressive than females and will chase intruders away from their shells.
Breeding
Breeding is relatively easy in proper conditions with shells and stable water parameters. Pairs will occupy shells and lay eggs inside, with both parents guarding the brood fiercely. Fry emerge from the shell after 2-3 weeks and can be fed infusoria and micro foods.
Tank Mates
Both are shell dwellers and may compete aggressively for shells
Small, peaceful fish that occupy different water zones
Bottom dwellers that don't compete for shells and help clean substrate
Peaceful algae eaters that stay out of shell dweller territory
Common Diseases
Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis)
White spots on body and fins, rapid breathing, lethargy, rubbing against objects
Increase temperature to 28-30°C (82-86°F), perform daily water changes, use ich medication if needed; maintain excellent water quality
Fin Rot
Frayed or deteriorating fins, discoloration at fin edges, lethargy
Perform frequent water changes, improve water quality, use antibacterial medication if severe; ensure proper nutrition
Bloat (Malawi Bloat)
Swollen abdomen, loss of appetite, difficulty swimming, pale coloration
Perform large water changes, feed quality foods sparingly, avoid overfeeding; may require antibiotic treatment in severe cases
Bacterial Infection
Open sores, red streaks on body, cloudy eyes, torn fins
Maintain pristine water conditions with frequent changes, use antibacterial medication, isolate affected fish if possible
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Quick Facts
- diet
- Omnivore - small crustaceans, insect larvae, algae
- lifespan
- 4-6 years
- max size
- 4 cm (1.5 in)
- tank size
- 20 gallons minimum
- temperament
- semi-aggressive
Water it likes
- ph
- 7.8-8.6
- ammonia
- 0 ppm
- nitrate
- <20 ppm
- hardness
- 10-20 dGH
- temperature
- 75–81°F (24–27°C)