Neolamprologus Similis (Neolamprologus similis)

Buy 6+ Neolamprologus similis save 10% at checkout. 

Neolamprologus similis are one of the most fascinating shell dwelling cichlids in the hobby. Native to Lake Tanganyika, these small cichlids are known for their striped pattern, bold personality, and highly interesting social behavior. Despite their small size, they are full of character and are constantly interacting with their environment by digging, claiming shells, and defending small territories.

At Legacy Line Aquatics, these fish are bred and raised in-house by me in a small-scale, care-first setup. I do not source from mass-production fish farms. My focus is on raising healthy fish with clean water, proper nutrition, and attentive day-to-day care, so you receive fish I’d be confident keeping in my own fish room.

Why Hobbyists Love Neolamprologus Similis

• Unique shell dwelling behavior that is constantly interesting to watch
• Beautiful striped pattern with classic Tanganyikan cichlid character
• Small size makes them a great option for species-focused aquariums
• Intelligent behavior with strong personalities
• Can form colonies over time in the right setup

Temperament & Behavior

Neolamprologus similis are small but territorial shell dwellers with a lot of personality. They are best kept in a species-focused setup or with very carefully chosen tank mates. Like many Tanganyikan cichlids, they may be tiny, but they take their territory seriously and will defend shells, fry, and breeding space with confidence.

They do best in tanks with:

• Sand substrate for digging and natural behavior
• Multiple shells spread throughout the tank
• Rockwork or structure used carefully without overcrowding shell zones
• Stable water quality and temperature
• Clear territory boundaries and open bottom space

Tank Size (Recommended)

• Pair or small group: 20 gallons long recommended
• Colony setup: 20 long / 29 gallon+ preferred
• Larger colonies: bigger tanks strongly recommended to allow space for territories and shell beds

Water Temperature

• Ideal range: 76–80°F
• Many hobbyists keep them around 77–79°F
• A stable temperature is more important than chasing an exact number

Tank Mates (Good Choices)

Best tank mates are fish that will not constantly invade their shell zone or outcompete them for territory. Many hobbyists choose to keep them in a species-only setup for best results.

Good tank mates may include:

• Other carefully selected Tanganyikan species in properly sized tanks
• Peaceful upper-level fish only in larger, well-planned setups
• Species-only colony setups are often the best choice

Avoid:

• Large aggressive cichlids
• Fish that constantly invade the bottom of the tank
• Boisterous fish that stress them
• Bottom dwellers that will compete for shells or territory

Feeding

Neolamprologus similis thrive on a varied diet. A rotation of quality foods helps support color, growth, breeding condition, and overall health.

Recommended foods:

• High-quality small pellets and flakes
• Frozen foods (brine shrimp, mysis, finely sized frozen foods)
• Live foods (optional, but excellent for conditioning and growth)

What You’re Getting from Legacy Line Aquatics

When you purchase from me, you’re getting fish that were bred and raised in-house, not mass-imported and flipped. I take a small-scale approach so I can focus on:

• Fish health
• Clean systems
• Proper feeding, mixture of high-quality pellets/flakes, live baby brine shrimp, frozen bloodworms, frozen brine shrimp, and other quality foods
• Parasite free

That matters, especially with cichlids.

Local Delivery

• Delivery is available within an 80-mile maximum distance from Owensboro, Kentucky.
• $150 minimum order is required for delivery
• $25 delivery fee applies

Local Meet-Up

• Local meet-up is available.
• After order we will contact you by email, or through Facebook or Instagram Messenger.
• We will arrange a date, time, and public location to meet.

Shipping & Live Arrival

Live fish are shipped Monday–Wednesday (weather permitting) to reduce transit risk. Please review our How Shipping Works page and DOA policy before ordering.