Taiwan Reef Cichlid (Protomelas sp. Steveni Taiwan)

A Lake Malawi cichlid whose males blaze blue and red over rocky reefs.

The Taiwan Reef Cichlid is a stunning, semi-aggressive Malawi hap with vivid blue and red colouring—ideal for experienced keepers of large cichlid tanks.

• Water conditions: The Taiwan Reef Cichlid (Protomelas sp. Steveni Taiwan) thrives in hard, alkaline water that mirrors Lake Malawi. Aim for a pH of 7.8–8.6, a temperature of 24–27°C (75–81°F), and general hardness around 10–18 dGH with a carbonate hardness of 8–12 dKH. Keep ammonia and nitrite at zero and hold nitrate below 20–40 ppm through regular maintenance. Stable parameters matter far more than chasing exact numbers, so avoid sudden pH or temperature swings. Strong filtration with a turnover of six to eight times the tank volume per hour, plus good surface agitation, will support the oxygen levels and water clarity these active cichlids appreciate. A sand substrate suits their digging and sifting behaviour, and moderate lighting shows off male colouration without encouraging algae.
• Tank size and aquascaping: Although juveniles are offered at 4–7 cm, this is a moderately large haplochromine that will grow substantially, with adult males typically reaching around 15–17 cm and females somewhat smaller. A minimum aquarium length of 120 cm and a volume of 300 litres is sensible for a young group, but 350–450 litres or more is better for long-term success. Build the scape with plenty of rockwork to create territories, caves, and visual barriers, while leaving open swimming space above the rocks. Use sand rather than sharp gravel, secure any stacked rockwork, and fit a tight lid because these fish can jump when startled or during territorial disputes.
• Suitable tank mates: This semi-aggressive cichlid is best kept with other Lake Malawi species of comparable size and temperament. Peaceful-to-moderately boisterous haps, peacocks, and robust mbuna can work in a generously sized tank, but avoid highly aggressive mbuna such as Melanochromis auratus or Pseudotropheus crabro that may bully or stress haps. Do not house them with small community fish, shrimp, or fry that fit into their mouths. Good companion options include Synodontis catfish, larger plecos, and similarly sized Malawi cichlids. Keep a ratio of one male to three or four females to spread aggression, and avoid multiple male Protomelas unless the tank is very large with broken sight lines. Always quarantine new arrivals and observe compatibility before adding them to a display.
• Feeding habits: The Taiwan Reef Cichlid is an omnivore that does well on a varied, high-quality diet. Offer a staple cichlid pellet sized appropriately for the fish, supplemented with spirulina-based foods, frozen or freeze-dried mysis, krill, brine shrimp, and occasional blanched vegetable matter. Feed two or three small portions daily rather than one large meal, and remove uneaten food to protect water quality. Avoid fatty mammalian meats, feeder fish, and low-quality foods that can contribute to digestive problems such as Malawi bloat. As the fish mature, a balanced diet supports vivid male colouration, healthy growth, and reliable spawning behaviour. If you keep a group, scatter food across the tank so subordinate fish get their share.
• Care requirements: Perform weekly water changes of 25–30%, vacuum the substrate, and rinse mechanical filter media in tank water to preserve beneficial bacteria. Test pH, hardness, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate regularly, especially in newly set-up aquariums. Acclimate new fish carefully using the drip method or a lengthy float-and-add procedure, and never rush them into a display tank. Watch for territorial behaviour, fin nipping, and hiding or loss of appetite, which can signal stress or aggression. Provide multiple hiding places and rearrange rockwork if aggression becomes concentrated on one fish. Keep the lid secure, maintain stable temperature with a reliable heater, and avoid overstocking. With consistent maintenance and a thoughtful stocking plan, this Malawi hap can live for many years and develop impressive adult colouration.
• Behaviour and selection: Males are territorial, especially when breeding, and display the strongest blue body colour with red and orange fin accents; females and juveniles are more subdued and brownish. Colour often develops with age, confidence, and a good diet, so do not judge young fish too harshly. This species is not recommended for nano tanks or peaceful community setups, but it is an excellent choice for aquarists who understand Malawi cichlid dynamics and can provide a spacious, stable, well-filtered aquarium.