First shell dweller tank

[Joshuakahan]

I picked up a group of F1 lamprologus ornatipinnis “Zambia” a few days ago. Just want to know what you guys think about the set up since this is my first go at shellies. I know a 55 is an odd footprint for them, it’s just what I have at the moment, but am thinking about a 3’x3’ frag tank

 

[tlindsey]

I picked up a group of F1 lamprologus ornatipinnis “Zambia” a few days ago. Just want to know what you guys think about the set up since this is my first go at shellies. I know a 55 is an odd footprint for them, it’s just what I have at the moment, but am thinking about a 3’x3’ frag tank

A201

 

[The Morning]

I would suggest more shells.

 

[Joshuakahan]

I would suggest more shells.

Thanks, a friend is giving me around 10 more later this week

 

[A201]

I think you are off to a great start.

 

[Joshuakahan]

I think you are off to a great start.

Thank you!

 

[Milingu]

I would suggest more shells.

More shells are always good but not always necessary.
L. ornatipinnis is monogamous in most cases. Forming a pair can take a while and not every male and female are compatible. But once a pair has formed they will defend at least a third of the tank against other ornatipinnis depending on which shell they choose.
What I'm getting at is that more territorial boundaries can help more than more shells.

Nice pickup by the way.

 

[Joshuakahan]

More shells are always good but not always necessary.
L. ornatipinnis is monogamous in most cases. Forming a pair can take a while and not every male and female are compatible. But once a pair has formed they will defend at least a third of the tank against other ornatipinnis depending on which shell they choose.
What I'm getting at is that more territorial boundaries can help more than more shells.

Nice pickup by the way.

Thank you, do you think I should add more rocks to this setup?

 

[Milingu]

Yes. I would add 4-5 smaller rocks between the shells. They don't have to as big as the already present rock. The size of an orange should be enough.

 

[Joshuakahan]

Yes. I would add 4-5 smaller rocks between the shells. They don't have to as big as the already present rock. The size of an orange should be enough.

Will do, I have several on hand, thanks!