| Neolamprologus Ocelatus This is a small shell dwelling Cichlid from lake Tanganyka in Africa, It is endemic to this lake (It’s found no where else). It lives all its life the same small patch around its shell, Where it retreats when threatened. Breeding this fish is usually very straight forward, and interesting. The breeding tank should be 24x12x12, and the bottom covered with silica sand, but only about 1cm deep. No plants are required, but snail shells are essential. Escargot shells are perfect, make sure that they are clean though. Scatter 6 - 8 of these shells all over the floor of the tank. Set the temp to about 80 - 82f, The water must be alkaline ph7.5 - 8 And a sponge filter is also a good idea. The pair can now be placed in the tank, They will probably disappear into the shells at first but should soon settle down. They will eat all good quality food but their diet should contain quite a bit of live food. After a few days they will begin to "arrange" their shells and once happy with the position of the shell. They will cover it with sand. They will have a shell each, they don’t live together. When all this is completed, the male will "visit" the female in her shell for a short time, then leave (I can see all the ladies nodding knowingly) It doesn’t last very long either and there is little obvious courtship, So if you miss it, you may not realise anything has happened. There will be a slight change in behaviour. Instead of hiding, the pair will defend the females shell against any perceived threat (I’ve had my hand bitten many times) Amazing when you think an adult male is only 1.5 inches long. After 10 days the babies can be seen swimming inside the shell enterance, Over the next few weeks they will get braver and travel further and further under dad’s watchful eye. Once they are fully independent it is best to remove them to a separate tank. Because if the adults breed again, The older offspring will be regaurded as a threat and killed, I have wittnessed this change take place In just a few minutes. There are several varieties available, Standard, Golden, Yellow finned, but they are all cared for in the same way. Back to Novice | 
