Description
Protomelas taeniolatus is a Haplochromine cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in Eastern Africa and occurs in sediment free, rocky habitats in relatively shallow waters. The fish is popular due to the bright rainbow-like colors of adult males and its relatively peaceful temperament. Juvenile and female P. taeniolatus, like many Haplochromines, do not display bright coloration.
It mainly feeds on algae growing on the rock surfaces, but also on a variety of small invertebrates.
The Protomelas taeniolatus is generally a peaceful fish until breeding time. At this time the male will guard quite a large amount of territory and chase away any fish that enters his ‘lair’. The males are mostly aggressive to each other unless in a large area of water. When the breeding time is over he will, again, allow any fish to enter his territory and will not guard it
Diet:Herbivore
Temp:73-82°F
PH:7.5-8.5
Hardness:Hard water
Fish size: 8″
Min tank size: 75 Gallons
