Gold Ocellatus
Lamprologus ocellatus
Water Parameters
About
Popular shell dweller with a very attractive golden variant. Small but extremely brave, defends its territory against much larger fish.
Behavior & Temperament
Territorial and bold for its size, this shell dweller vigorously defends its shell against much larger fish. It can be kept in pairs or a small group.
Feeding
Small omnivore. Accepts fine flakes, micro pellets, baby brine shrimp, daphnia and cyclops. In the wild, hunts micro-invertebrates around its shell.
Breeding
Shell breeder. Female deposits eggs inside the shell and aggressively guards them. Clutches of 10–20 eggs. Both parents tend the fry for several weeks.
Care Notes
Fine sand substrate with snail shells. Alkaline and hard water. The aquarium can be small but well‑filtered. Extra shells for territorial expansion.
Compatibility
Excellent in a shell dweller tank. Can be kept with N. multifasciatus in larger tanks. Avoid large fish that may prey on shell dwellers.
Quick Summary
| Scientific Name | Lamprologus ocellatus |
|---|---|
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Category | Fish |
| Care Level | Beginner |
| Water Type | Freshwater |
| Max Size | 5.0 cm (2") |
| Min Tank | 40 L (11 gal) |
| Min Group | 1+ |
| Diet | Small omnivore. Accepts fine flakes, micro pellets, baby brine shrimp, daphnia and cyclops. In the wild, hunts micro-invertebrates around its shell. |
| Temperament | Territorial and bold for its size, this shell dweller vigorously defends its shell against much larger fish. It can be kept in pairs or a small group. |
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