−10%
Moderate
Taiwan Reef Cichlid (Protomelas sp. 'Steveni Taiwan')
24–28°C · pH 7.5–8.5 · 300L
£15.29£16.99
Spindle Hap Cichlid (Protomelas taeniolatus) is a large Lake Malawi hap for open swimming space, hard alkaline water and carefully chosen cichlid tank mates. Covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee and sent by licensed live-animal courier service.
Adult size is the maximum length this species reaches at full maturity (scientific sources). The livestock you receive will be younger and smaller — pick a size variant above for the actual shipping size. Photos are AI-enhanced, so the animal may show subtle colour or marking differences.
Protomelas taeniolatus
Spindle Hap Cichlid bond and breed in male/female pairs — buying a pair gives them the social structure they need.
Spindle Hap Cichlid (Protomelas taeniolatus) is a large Lake Malawi hap for open swimming space, hard alkaline water and carefully chosen cichlid tank mates. Covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee and sent by licensed live-animal courier service.
Adult size is the maximum length this species reaches at full maturity (scientific sources). The livestock you receive will be younger and smaller — pick a size variant above for the actual shipping size. Photos are AI-enhanced, so the animal may show subtle colour or marking differences.
Cichlids are one of the most diverse fish families in the hobby. From tiny apistogrammas to massive oscars, this guide covers the basics of keeping them well.
Maintain these water conditions for optimal health and vibrant colors
Spindle Hap Cichlid (Protomelas taeniolatus) is a large Lake Malawi hap often associated with Red Empress-type colour and open-water presence. It is not a small community fish; plan it for a spacious hard-water Malawi aquarium with open sand, rockwork and carefully chosen tank mates.
| Listed identity | Protomelas taeniolatus |
|---|---|
| Adult size | About 18-20cm |
| Minimum aquarium | 300 litres or larger; longer tanks are preferred |
| Water | 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, hard alkaline water |
| Diet | Quality cichlid pellets, spirulina and suitable frozen foods |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive Malawi hap |
Use open swimming areas with a few sturdy rock structures. A single male with several females, or one in a suitable Malawi hap/peacock community, is usually safer than mixing it with very aggressive mbuna or small fish.
Use as a first-time buyer. This live fish is packed for a licensed live-animal courier service and covered by the Tropical Fish Co Live Arrival Guarantee.
24–28°C · pH 7.5–8.5 · 300L
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