Fin's Fish Guide
The Ocellated shell-dweller (Lamprologus ocellatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 6 cm.
Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa; sandy bottoms with snail shells.
Description
The ocellated shell-dweller is a dwarf cichlid endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. The species grows to a few centimetres and has a stocky body with an eyespot on the gill cover. It is a true shell-dweller: it lives in and breeds in empty snail shells of the genus Neothauma on sand bottoms, which it also uses as shelter. It sometimes forms small groups, mixed with other species. It feeds on small invertebrates. It is popular with aquarists and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ocellated shell-dweller?
The Ocellated shell-dweller has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Lives and breeds in empty Neothauma snail shells; eyespot on the operculum.
Where does the Ocellated shell-dweller live?
The Ocellated shell-dweller lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa; sandy bottoms with snail shells.
How big does the Ocellated shell-dweller get?
The Ocellated shell-dweller grows to a maximum of about 6 cm.
Is the Ocellated shell-dweller dangerous to humans?
No, the Ocellated shell-dweller is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Ocellated shell-dweller edible?
The Ocellated shell-dweller is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Lamprologus
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Ocellated shell-dweller?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ocellated shell-dweller is one of 12,519 species in the app.