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minimum tank size for a pair of multies?

Posted: Fri Aug 15, 2025 5:21 am
by bolt9x
I'm curious, what's the smallest tank size I could get away with for a pair of Multi's?

Re: minimum tank size for a pair of multies?

Posted: Fri Aug 15, 2025 5:37 am
by oakleyride
To clarify, which specific type of Multi's are we talking about here. If we're referring to the shell dwellers, I'd say a 10-gallon tank could comfortably accommodate two pairs.

Re: minimum tank size for a pair of multies?

Posted: Fri Aug 15, 2025 6:32 am
by kalevi
You could also have some other tangs in smaller aquariums, like a single specimen in a smaller tank, that way you're not overcrowding.

Re: minimum tank size for a pair of multies?

Posted: Fri Aug 15, 2025 7:20 am
by bolt9x
I've got a spare 35L tank just collecting dust, seems a shame not to put it to use.

Re: minimum tank size for a pair of multies?

Posted: Fri Aug 15, 2025 9:02 am
by dawnride
A 35L would be a decent starting point, but you'll eventually need to rehome some of the fry as they mature. For optimal setup, I'd recommend a dozen or more shells to provide ample cover. I recall seeing a small multi tank set up in a similar way, with a deep shell bed and a remarkable number of fry darting about.

Re: minimum tank size for a pair of multies?

Posted: Fri Aug 15, 2025 9:59 am
by zenrow
Just my two cents, I've come across thriving multi colonies in tanks roughly the same size as yours, and it seems that's down to the deep shell bed. I've had a male and female kungweensis in a smaller setup, 18"x10"x10", and it worked out alright.

Re: minimum tank size for a pair of multies?

Posted: Fri Aug 15, 2025 10:45 am
by bolt9x
I'm pretty sure my wife wouldn't be too thrilled about it, but that's just part of the deal, right?

Re: minimum tank size for a pair of multies?

Posted: Fri Aug 15, 2025 12:08 pm
by zenrow
Just do it, mate. I'm setting up a new shelly tank as we speak. Found some punctatus fry, so that's another tank to add to the collection. If this keeps up, I'll be needing a bigger shed soon. Can already picture it – me, surrounded by tanks, a one-bar fire, and a blanket to keep warm. Just go for it, she'll come around. Think of it as a Christmas gift, a little something for the both of you to enjoy.

Re: minimum tank size for a pair of multies?

Posted: Fri Aug 15, 2025 12:29 pm
by bolt9x
Got a soft spot for saulosi mate, had a few in the past, great little characters, never had any major issues with them.

Re: minimum tank size for a pair of multies?

Posted: Fri Aug 15, 2025 12:38 pm
by zenrow
bolt9x wrote: Fri Aug 15, 2025 5:21 am I'm curious, what's the smallest tank size I could get away with for a pair of Multi's?
Saulosi? No experience, mate.