Brevis shelldweller

Introduction

The Brevis shelldweller, scientifically known as Neolamprologus brevis, is a captivating species among freshwater aquarium enthusiasts. Native to Africa's Lake Tanganyika, these diminutive cichlids are renowned for their unique behavior of inhabiting empty snail shells, making them a fascinating addition to home aquariums. Their manageable size and intriguing behaviors make them particularly appealing to both novice and intermediate fishkeepers.

What makes the Brevis shelldweller unique among aquarium fish?

Unlike many other cichlids, Brevis shelldwellers exhibit a distinctive behavior of residing and breeding within snail shells, offering aquarists a glimpse into their natural, shell-dwelling lifestyle.

Are Brevis shelldwellers suitable for beginners?

Yes, their hardy nature and relatively straightforward care requirements make them suitable for beginners, provided their specific environmental needs are met.

Care and Environment

Proper care for Brevis shelldwellers involves replicating their natural habitat to ensure their health and well-being. A minimum tank size of 40 liters is recommended for a pair, with larger volumes preferred for groups.

Water parameters should be maintained with a pH between 7.5 and 9.0, a temperature range of 23°C to 27°C, and water hardness between 8 to 25 dGH. Efficient filtration is essential to maintain water quality, but strong currents should be avoided to mimic the calm waters of their natural environment.

Lighting should be moderate, and the tank should be decorated with a sandy substrate to facilitate their natural digging behavior. Providing multiple empty snail shells is crucial, as these serve as their homes and breeding sites.

Brevis shelldwellers are omnivorous and thrive on a varied diet that includes high-quality cichlid pellets or flakes, supplemented with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia.

While generally peaceful, they can exhibit territorial behavior, especially during breeding. It's important to monitor their interactions and provide adequate space and resources to minimize aggression.

How many shells should be provided in the tank?

It's advisable to provide more shells than the number of fish to ensure each individual has access to a suitable home, reducing potential conflicts.

Can Brevis shelldwellers be kept with live plants?

Yes, they are plant-friendly and typically do not damage live plants, making them compatible with planted aquariums.

How often should water changes be performed?

Regular water changes, approximately 20-30% monthly, are recommended to maintain optimal water quality and mimic their natural environment.

Origin and Habitat

Brevis shelldwellers are endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa, the world's second-largest freshwater lake. They inhabit sandy, shallow regions of the lake, often at depths where empty snail shells are abundant. These shells provide essential shelter and breeding sites, offering protection from predators and harsh environmental conditions. The lake's environment is characterized by hard, alkaline water with minimal current, conditions that should be replicated in the home aquarium to ensure their well-being.

Why do Brevis shelldwellers prefer snail shells?

In their natural habitat, snail shells offer protection and serve as breeding sites, allowing them to establish territories and raise their young safely.

What is the significance of Lake Tanganyika's water conditions?

The lake's hard, alkaline water is crucial for the health of Brevis shelldwellers, as it influences their physiological processes and overall well-being.

Temperament and Compatibility

Brevis shelldwellers are generally peaceful but can become territorial, especially during breeding periods. They are best kept in species-specific tanks or with other small, peaceful Tanganyikan cichlids that occupy different areas of the tank. Suitable tank mates include small rock dwellers like Julidochromis species and open-water swimmers such as Cyprichromis.

It's important to avoid housing them with larger or more aggressive species that may outcompete them for food or territory. Providing ample space and resources can help minimize territorial disputes and promote a harmonious tank environment.

Can multiple Brevis shelldwellers be kept together?

Yes, they can be kept in pairs or small groups, but adequate space and multiple shells are essential to reduce territorial aggression.

Are they suitable for community tanks?

They are best kept with other small, peaceful Tanganyikan cichlids and may not be suitable for typical community tanks with diverse species.

Interesting Facts

Brevis shelldwellers exhibit a unique monogamous breeding behavior, often sharing a single shell during spawning. Unlike many other cichlids, they are less aggressive and can be kept in relatively small aquariums, making them ideal for hobbyists with limited space. Their fascinating shell-dwelling behavior and manageable care requirements have contributed to their growing popularity in the aquarium trade.

How do Brevis shelldwellers breed?

They are monogamous and typically share a shell during spawning, with the female laying eggs inside the shell, which both parents then guard.

What makes them suitable for small aquariums?

Their small size and relatively peaceful nature allow them to thrive in smaller tanks, provided their specific environmental needs are met.

Sources

All information in this article has been gathered from the following reputable sources:

• nippyfish.net
• seriouslyfish.com
• worldcichlids.com