Wave-washed, sediment-free rocky habitat;
typically in midwater about 1 m from the substrate,
often just below the surface.
Geographic distribution:
Likoma and Chizumulu Islands (Malawi);
Chilucha Reef near Metangula (Mozambique).
Typical adult size:
Males up to about 18 cm total length;
females up to about 14 cm.
Sexual dimorphism:
Males larger and show breeding coloration;
females smaller. Males at Chilucha Reef may exhibit a white blaze on the head.
Aquarium setup:
Requires spacious aquarium with open swimming area
and rocky structures providing caves. Only one adult male per tank recommended.
Diet:
Carnivorous.
Feeds on invertebrates taken from the water column,
including insects that fall onto the water surface.
Forms small foraging groups rarely exceeding 10 individuals.
Breeding:
Breeding males present year-round.
Males defend caves or sheltered rocky sites as spawning locations.
Spawning occurs inside the cave.
Females guard fry for several weeks after first release.
Aggression:
Males territorial during breeding;
generally less aggressive than some other
Protomelas species.
Special notes:
Characterized by large spots along the dorsal base
and a very prominent midlateral stripe.
Closely related to Protomelas spilonotus
and possibly a geographical race.
Population density low and species rarely collected.
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