Shell Dweller

Neolamprologus multifasciatus

Also sold as Multifasciatus · Multies · Multi shell dweller

Shell Dweller (Neolamprologus multifasciatus) is a semi-aggressive freshwater fish that reaches about 4.5 cm (1.8 in) and swims in open water in a shoal. It wants 75–81°F (24–27°C) and pH 7.5–9, can be kept singly, and needs a tank of at least 40 L (11 gal).

Shell Dweller (Neolamprologus multifasciatus)

At a glance

TypeFish
Adult size4.5 cm (1.8 in)
Minimum tank40 L (11 gal)
Group sizeCan be kept singly
Temperature75–81°F (24–27°C)
pH7.5–9
TemperamentSemi-aggressive
Lifespan5–8 years

Before it goes in

  • Shell Dweller needs at least 40 L (11 gal). The smallest size in this library that clears that is the 15 Gallon.
  • It is the wrong size to share a tank with Goldfish, Angelfish and Axolotl: it ends up as food.
  • It holds at 75–81°F (24–27°C). That shares a window with Betta and Cherry Shrimp, but not with Goldfish and Discus.
  • It is semi-aggressive — plan the tank around it rather than adding it to a finished community.
  • It digs in the substrate. A freshly planted carpet — Dwarf Hairgrass Mini and Downoi — gets lifted before it roots.

What tank size does it need?

At least 40 L (11 gal). The smallest size here that clears it is the 15 Gallon.

What water does it want?

75–81°F (24–27°C), pH 7.5–9.

How long does it live?

5–8 years in a tank that suits it. That is how long you are signing up for.

Good tank mates

Often compared with

Shell DwellerBlack Phantom TetraChecker Barb
Adult size4.5 cm4.5 cm4.5 cm
Min tank40 L60 L68 L
Group1+6+6+
Temperature75–81°F (24–27°C)72–82°F (22–28°C)64–77°F (18–25°C)

More livestock

Plan a tank with Shell Dweller →

Sources (3) · checked Sep 2026