Red Empress
NameRed Empress
Scientific NameProtomelas taeniolatus
Common NamesRed Empress, Spindle Hap, Tangerine Tiger
FamilyCichlidae
OriginAfrica, Lake Malawi
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)75
Max Size (Inches)6.5
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)76-82
pH Range7.8-8.6
Compatible SpeciesOther peaceful to moderately aggressive Lake Malawi Haps and Peacocks, Synodontis catfish, Aulonocara species, Copadichromis species
Description
The Red Empress is a striking Lake Malawi cichlid, with mature males displaying vibrant red and orange bodies often accented with blue on the head. Females are typically less colorful, exhibiting a more subdued brown or yellow with vertical bars. These active fish require a spacious aquarium with plenty of rockwork and open swimming areas.
