creating a thriving shell-dweller colony in a 29-gallon aquarium

[earthie_9]

Made some changes to the tank, finally got around to moving that little OB to the 55gal, he's doing alright. Moved one of the male multis to the 20gal with the pleco fry, was getting too aggressive in the 29gal, much calmer now. Still need to rehome the young male betta, but that'll have to wait for now.

Decided to throw some plants in, couldn't resist with the new light. The jungle val's doing the best so far, we'll see how it goes.

Spotted a single fry, just one, darting around the shells. The parents are doing a great job guarding that pit.

[earthie_9]

Hey another shell dweller tank. I've been keeping 6 of these Neolamprologus multifasciatus in a 10 gallon, and it's been a blast watching them thrive. One thing I've learned is that they need a lot of shells - I'd recommend at least 4 or 5 per fish. They really utilize them, and it's amazing to see.

I like your setup, especially the fact that you didn't overdo it with the plants. Their native habitat is pretty barren, just shells and sand, so you're on the right track. What I've noticed with my group is that they don't use the entire tank - at least, not yet. Once the fry grow up, that might change, but for now, they're happy with about 2/3 of the tank.

I'm curious, do you plan on making this 29 gallon a dedicated shell dweller tank in the long run? Or are you going to keep the peacocks in there as they mature? Obviously, the betta is just a temporary guest, but I'm interested in your plans. As long as you keep the multis well-fed and provide enough shells, they'll breed like crazy. They're incredibly prolific, and it's amazing to watch.

I finally gave in and added some plants - jungle val, rotala, crypts, and anubias. Nothing too fancy, just a little experiment. The jungle val is looking great, might just end up keeping that one for a background and ditching the rest.

Two little fry now, and the parents are super protective - no other fish dare get near the nursery.