TAIWAN REEF (Protomelas sp. “Steveni Taiwan”)

Taiwan Reef Cichlid (Protomelas sp. “Steveni Taiwan”)

Description:
The Taiwan Reef is one of the most eye-catching Lake Malawi haps, known for its incredible mix of electric blue, deep red, and orange coloration. Mature males develop intense color contrast, often showing a bright blue face and body with rich red/orange across the shoulders and dorsal area. Females are much more subdued, typically silver-gray, allowing the males to truly stand out.

This species is a favorite among African cichlid keepers looking for a bold, colorful show fish without the extreme aggression of mbuna.

Care Guide:

• Adult Size: 6–7 inches
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive
• Tank Size: 75 gallons minimum (larger for mixed African setups)
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 76–82°F (24–28°C)
  • pH: 7.8–8.6
  • Hard, alkaline water
• Tank Setup:
  A mix of rockwork and open swimming space is ideal. Provide caves and structure for territory, but ensure plenty of open water for swimming. Sand substrate is preferred.
• Diet:
  Omnivorous — high-quality cichlid pellets, supplemented with frozen foods like mysis shrimp and brine shrimp. Occasional vegetable matter can be beneficial.
• Tankmates:
  Best kept with other peacocks and haps of similar temperament. Avoid overly aggressive mbuna, especially highly territorial species.
• Behavior Notes:
  Males will display vibrant colors and establish territories, especially when females are present. Keeping one male with multiple females helps reduce aggression and encourages natural behavior.