Multi Shell Dwellers (Neolamprologus Multifasciatus)

Neolamprologus multifasciatus, commonly known as “Multies,” are small shell-dwelling cichlids native to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. In aquariums, males can grow up to 5 cm (2 inches) in length, while females typically reach about 2.5 cm (1 inch). In their natural habitat, however, males reach a standard length of only about 3 cm (1.2 inches), and females remain under 2.2 cm (0.87 inches), making them one of the smallest known species in the Cichlidae family. 

Maintain a tank temperature between 75–80°F (24–27°C) with a pH ranging from 7.5 to 9.0. The water should be hard, with a general hardness (GH) of at least 8° (140 ppm). Using aragonite sand as a substrate can help elevate the pH, carbonate hardness (KH), and general hardness (GH) levels.