Protomelas taeniolatus

Alternative names

 * Spindle Hap, Haplochromis Red Empress

Sexing

 * The male has a red body with blue head, the female is grey.

Breeding

 * This fish is a Mouth Brooder. Males can be aggressive during breeding to the point of killing a disinterested female. Males will claim and defend a large territory during this time.

Tank compatibility

 * Fairly peaceful for an African Cichlid, should be kept with similar Malawi Cichlids, peaceful Mbuna and Synodontis catfish.

Diet

 * Feed quality flakes and pellets, spirulina and supplement the diet with blanched vegetables.

Feeding regime

 * Feed once or twice a day.

Environment Specifics

 * Provide with hiding places/caves. Prefers a tank with a lot of rockwork.

Behaviour

 * Typical African Cichlid when breeding. Enjoys digging in gravel or sand.

Identification

 * An attractive elongate oval fish that is vivid blue around the head with hints of red and green through the body. The dorsal fin is edged in white.