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The Red Empress, scientifically known as Protomelas taeniolatus, is a stunning and popular cichlid hailing from the rocky shores of Lake Malawi, Africa. Renowned for its vibrant coloration, particularly in dominant males, this species makes a magnificent centerpiece in a Malawi cichlid aquarium. Males display an iridescent mix of fiery reds, oranges, and purples, often accentuated with electric blue highlights on their fins and face, and distinct vertical bars that shimmer under appropriate lighting. Females, in contrast, are more subdued, typically exhibiting a silvery-brown or mottled pattern, though they can develop a beautiful pearlescent sheen when mature.Reaching an average size of 5-6 inches, Red Empress cichlids require a spacious aquarium, ideally 75 gallons or more for a single male and a harem of females. They thrive in hard, alkaline water with a pH range of 7.8-8.6 and temperatures between 76-82°F (24-28°C), mimicking their natural habitat. The tank setup should include plenty of rockwork to create caves and territories, along with open swimming areas. While generally considered semi-aggressive, especially during breeding, Red Empress are less belligerent than some other Mbuna cichlids and can be kept with other similarly sized and tempered Malawian Haps and Peacocks. They are primarily herbivorous, so a high-quality spirulina-based flake or pellet should form the staple of their diet, supplemented with occasional frozen Mysis shrimp or brine shrimp to enhance coloration. Avoid overfeeding protein-rich foods, as this can lead to Malawi Bloat. Their striking beauty and manageable temperament make the Red Empress an excellent choice for intermediate to advanced cichlid enthusiasts looking to add a splash of spectacular color to their community tank.

Hap. Relatively peaceful for a Hap, but still needs a large tank with appropriate tankmates.