Ocellated Shell Dweller Aquarium Care Guide

Keeping Ocellated Shell Dweller in an aquarium requires the right conditions.

Aquarium Information

• Care level: intermediate
• Temperament: territorial
• Diet: carnivore
• Minimum tank size: 10 gallons (38 liters) for a single pair, 20 gallons (75 liters) for a small colony
• Compatibility: Best kept in a species-specific tank or with other small, peaceful Tanganyikan cichlids that occupy different niches (e.g., open water species). Avoid aggressive or much larger tank mates. Can be kept in colonies if sufficient shells and space are provided to mitigate territorial disputes.
• Special requirements: Requires a substrate of fine sand and an abundance of empty snail shells (e.g., escargot shells, Neothauma shells if available) to mimic their natural habitat. These shells are crucial for their breeding and security. Good filtration and regular water changes are essential to maintain pristine water quality.

Water parameters

Temperature

75-80°F (24-27°C)

pH level

7.8-9.0

Hardness

10-20 dGH

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