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Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps

Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps
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Protomelas labridens 'Chiofu Bay'.jpg Protomelas labridens 'Likoma Island'.jpg Protomelas labridens 'Mbamba Bay'.jpg
Previous pageNext pageProtomelas labridens 'Likoma Island'
Genus: Protomelas
Type locality: South end of Lake Malawi
Biotope: Shallow vegetated areas, most commonly at depths below 5 m. Typically associated with plant beds in sheltered zones.
Geographic distribution: Lake-wide distribution in Lake Malawi and also present in Lake Malombe.
Typical adult size: Males reach about 18 cm total length. Females remain approximately one quarter smaller.
Sexual dimorphism: Breeding males show a blue hue on the head and an orange anal fin. Females retain a silvery-beige coloration with horizontal stripes and faint vertical barring.
Recommended aquarium size: A spacious aquarium is recommended, with only one adult male per tank due to persistent territoriality.
Aquarium setup: Provide planted areas or structures that simulate weed beds to encourage natural behavior.
Diet: Feeds mainly on invertebrates, including small snails such as Bulinus succinoides. Often accompanies foraging groups of Protomelas similis.
Breeding: Territorial males clear a spawning platform among weed beds, forming a conspicuous dish about 50 cm in diameter. Females are led to the cleared site where spawning takes place.
Aggression: Males are highly territorial in breeding condition and defend their spawning sites vigorously.
Special notes: Member of the so-called Kambuzi group together with P. similis, P. kirkii and P. pleurotaenia. Frequently confused with related species and often exported under the name Protomelas similis.

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Photo: © Ad Konings
Photo: © Ad Konings
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Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps.
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