TANZANIAN SPILONTUS – male

tanzanian spilonotus care guide

scientific name: Protomelas spilonotus

general overview

• A moderately peaceful malawi peacock-type cichlid that shows good color and territorial behavior in breeding season. AquaInfo+2borstein.info+2

• Males are more brightly colored and larger; females tend to be more subdued in coloration. AquaInfo+1

• Being mouthbrooders, they require stable water quality and good nutrition for breeding success. AquaInfo+1

aquarium setup & parameters

behavior & compatibility

• Males become territorial, especially during breeding; they should be kept with sufficient space and hiding spots. AquaInfo+1

• Consider a harem setup: 1 male to 3–4 females to reduce aggression and stress. AquaInfo+2borstein.info+2

• Best tankmates: other malawi cichlids with similar temperament and water requirements; avoid overly timid species. AquaInfo+1

diet & feeding

• Carnivorous / insectivorous in the wild. In captivity, feed a high-quality cichlid pellet or flake diet, supplemented with live/frozen foods (brine shrimp, mysis, cyclops) for color and health. AquaInfo+2borstein.info+2

• Feed several smaller meals per day rather than one large feed to reduce waste and maintain water quality.

breeding & reproduction

• Mouthbrooders: females incubate eggs/fry in their mouths until they are free-swimming. AquaInfo+1

• Use a ratio of females to male (e.g. 3–4 females per male) to reduce harassment. borstein.info+1

• Provide hiding places and neutral territory for courtship and spawning.

• After spawning, remove the female to a separate nursery if possible to protect fry from aggression and predation.

maintenance tips & cautions

• Watch for aggression during breeding periods; provide escape routes and shelter.

• Avoid overstocking; as water quality is critical.

• When introducing new fish, acclimate slowly and monitor compatibility.

• Use proper buffering (e.g. Malawi salt mix) if your tap water is soft or acidic.