Description
Protomelas sp. spilonotus Tanzania is a striking Lake Malawi cichlid renowned for its vibrant colours and elegant form. Recognised for its beautiful blue and yellow hues, with males often displaying a dazzling iridescent sheen, this species adds colour and movement to any Malawi aquarium. Typically reaching about 12-15cm in length, it’s a semi-aggressive fish that thrives in a spacious tank with plenty of hiding spots and open swimming areas. Its active nature and stunning appearance make it a favourite among experienced Malawi cichlid keepers.
Tank Recommendations:
A minimum of 150 litres is recommended for a small group or breeding pair. Use sandy substrate, rocks, and caves to mimic their natural habitat, and incorporate plants where possible. Maintain water temperature between 24-26°C, pH around 7.8-8.6, and soft to moderately hard water. Good filtration and regular water changes are essential to keep water quality optimal.
Compatibility & Incompatibility:
They are compatible with other medium-sized Malawi cichlids such as Lethrinops or Aulonocara, provided tank mates are similarly sized and peaceful or semi-aggressive. Avoid housing them with overly aggressive or much larger fish that may bully or prey upon them. During breeding, they can become territorial.
Best Feeding Regime:
Omnivorous; they do well with high-quality pellets or flakes, supplemented with live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. They also enjoy vegetable matter like spirulina wafers. Feed twice daily, only what they can consume within a few minutes to prevent water quality issues.
Additional Details:
- Scientific Name: Protomelas spilonotus
- Care Level: Moderate
- Common Names: Tanzania Blue & Yellow Hap, Spilonotus
- Diet: Omnivorous, with a preference for meaty and plant foods
- Fish Family: Cichlidae
- Lifespan: 8-10 years
- Max. Length: 15cm
- Min. Tank Volume: 150 litres
- Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa
- Sociability: Peaceful to semi-aggressive, territorial during breeding
- Water Conditions: pH 7.8-8.6, Temperature 24-26°C, soft to moderately hard water
Protomelas sp. spilonotus Tanzania is a vibrant, active fish that provides colour and movement to a Malawi cichlid setup, rewarding keepers with its stunning appearance when kept in proper conditions.
