Taiwan Reef Cichlid (Protomelas sp. Taiwan Reef): A Stunning Aquarium Addition

The Taiwan Reef Cichlid (Protomelas sp. Taiwan Reef) is a gorgeous species from Lake Malawi. Known for their vibrant colors, males display striking hues of blue, yellow, and orange. These fish are not only beautiful but also active and engaging. They make a fantastic addition to medium or large aquariums, bringing energy and elegance to your tank.

Tank Setup for Taiwan Reef Cichlids

Setting up their tank correctly is essential for their health. A tank of at least 250 liters provides enough swimming space. Use sand as the substrate and include rocks or caves to create hiding spots. This setup mimics their natural habitat and helps reduce stress. Keep the water between 24°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 7.5 to 8.5. Frequent water changes and strong filtration are critical.

Diet and Feeding

Feeding Taiwan Reef Cichlids is straightforward and rewarding. Start with high-quality cichlid pellets or flakes as their staple diet. To boost their coloration, include spirulina-based foods, krill, or live treats like brine shrimp. Occasionally, offer vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added variety. A diverse diet ensures they remain healthy, active, and vibrant, showcasing their stunning hues.

Behaviour and Tank Mates

Taiwan Reef Cichlids are semi-aggressive but usually get along well with compatible fish. Suitable tank mates include other peaceful African cichlids, such as Peacocks and Haps. Avoid overly aggressive species or much smaller fish, as these could create tension. Adding plenty of hiding spots and ensuring enough space for all tank inhabitants helps maintain harmony in the aquarium.

Breeding Taiwan Reef Cichlids

Breeding these cichlids is both rewarding and manageable. They are maternal mouthbrooders, with females carrying eggs and fry in their mouths for protection. To encourage breeding, provide flat rocks or caves for spawning. Once the fry hatch, feed them finely crushed flakes or baby brine shrimp to support healthy growth. Stable water conditions are key to breeding success.

FAQs

How big do Taiwan Reef Cichlids grow?
They can reach up to 18 cm, making them ideal for medium to large aquariums.

Are they aggressive?
While semi-aggressive, they are peaceful with proper tank mates and enough space.

What tank mates are suitable?
Good companions include Peacocks, Haps, and other similarly tempered African cichlids.

What do they eat?
Their diet includes cichlid pellets, spirulina-based foods, krill, and occasional vegetables like spinach.

How do they breed?
Females carry eggs and fry in their mouths. Proper conditions encourage successful breeding.

Species Overview

• Species: Protomelas sp. Taiwan Reef
• Common Name: Taiwan Reef Cichlid
• Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa
• Diet: Omnivore
• PH Range: 7.5–8.5
• Temperature: 24°C–28°C
• Max Size: Up to 18 cm
• Tank Size: Minimum 250 liters