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Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps

Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps
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Placidochromis sp. 'hennydaviesae V' South East Arm.jpg Placidochromis sp. 'longimanus namiasi' South East Arm.jpg Protomelas kirkii 'South East Arm'.jpg Rhamphochromis ferox 'South East Arm'.jpg Rhamphochromis lucius 'South East Arm'.jpg
Previous pageNext pageProtomelas kirkii 'South East Arm'
Genus: Protomelas
Type locality: Lake Malawi and Upper Shire
Biotope: Very shallow vegetated areas, most frequently in sheltered bays. Adults are often seen in about 1 m of water and breeding takes place in these shallow regions.
Geographic distribution: Occurs throughout Lake Malawi.
Typical adult size: Males attain about 16 cm total length. Females remain approximately one fourth smaller.
Aquarium setup: Only one male should be kept per aquarium due to strong territorial behavior.
Diet: Picks at aufwuchs growing on submerged tree trunks and roots. Diet consists mainly of invertebrates, especially snails found within the aufwuchs.
Breeding: Breeds during July to September. Territorial males construct small sand-castles in colonies at depths of about 2 m. Spawning occurs in the morning and females mouthbrood, gathering into schools.
Aggression: Males are highly territorial, particularly during the breeding season.
Special notes: Characterized by two interrupted horizontal lines on the body and a long snout. Breeding males display a turquoise snout and distinct spots in the anal fin. Member of the so-called Kambuzi group within Protomelas.

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Photo: © George Turner
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Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps.
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