Taiwan Reef Cichlid – A Showpiece of Color for Your Malawi Aquarium
The Taiwan Reef Cichlid (Protomelas sp. “Taiwan Reef”) is one of the most colorful and eye-catching cichlids from Lake Malawi. Males are especially prized for their vibrant combination of red, yellow, and shimmering metallic blue hues, making them a standout centerpiece fish in any Malawi setup. Their striking colors develop fully as they mature, rewarding patient aquarists with a spectacular display.
Despite their bold appearance, Taiwan Reef Cichlids are less aggressive than Mbuna species and do well in peaceful to moderately aggressive African cichlid communities. They thrive in aquariums with open swimming spaces, rocks, and caves to mimic their natural reef-like environment.
Key Features:
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Brilliant Coloration: Metallic blue body, red chest, and yellow dorsal highlights.
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Peaceful to Moderate Temperament: Suitable for a variety of Malawi community setups.
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Medium to Large Size: Reaches 6-7 inches in adulthood.
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Active and Hardy: Thrives in well-maintained aquariums with proper structure and space.
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Ideal for Display Tanks: Perfect for aquarists looking to showcase vibrant color.
Recommended Tank Conditions:
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Tank Size: Minimum 75 gallons
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Temperature: 24°C – 28°C
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pH: 7.8 – 8.6
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Hardness: 10 – 20 dGH
Feeding:
Taiwan Reef Cichlids are omnivorous with a preference for high-quality cichlid foods. Offer a varied diet of pellets, flakes, spirulina-based foods, and occasional live or frozen treats like brine shrimp or krill to enhance coloration and vitality.
Add a centerpiece of vivid, tropical color to your aquarium with the Taiwan Reef Cichlid — a must-have for any serious African cichlid enthusiast seeking both beauty and activity.
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