Red Empress Hap Cichlid - (Protomelas taeniolatus)

🐟 Red Empress Hap Cichlid – (Protomelas taeniolatus) – Vibrant African Cichlid for Sale

The Red Empress Hap (Protomelas taeniolatus) is one of the most strikingly colorful Lake Malawi cichlids, known for its iridescent blue face, fiery red-orange body, and shimmering fins. Males develop the most vivid coloration as they mature, while females are typically silver-gray with subtle markings.

Peaceful for a Malawi cichlid, the Red Empress can be kept with other non-aggressive haps and peacocks in a spacious, rocky setup. Their vibrant colors and relatively calm nature make them a favorite for African cichlid enthusiasts.

🔎 Quick Facts – Red Empress Hap Cichlid (Protomelas taeniolatus)

• 📛 Common Names: Red Empress, Spindle Hap
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Protomelas taeniolatus
• 🌍 Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa
• 🎨 Appearance: Males display metallic blue heads with brilliant red-orange flanks and fins; females are silver with faint horizontal barring
• 📏 Max Size: 6–7 inches (15–18 cm)
• 💎 Availability: Common in the aquarium trade; mostly captive-bred

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• 🤝 Generally peaceful compared to other Malawi cichlids
• 👫 Best kept in harems (one male with several females) to reduce aggression
• 🐟 Active swimmers that enjoy open space
• 🧠 Social and interactive in groups

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 75+ gallons
• 🌿 Rockwork and caves for territory and shelter
• 🪵 Sandy substrate preferred
• 💡 Bright lighting to enhance coloration
• 🌊 Strong filtration and good water movement

💧 Water Parameters – Red Empress Hap Cichlid Care

• 🌡️ Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 7.5–8.6
• 💧 Hardness: Hard, alkaline water

🍽️ Diet – Omnivorous with Herbivorous Leaning

• 🌾 High-quality cichlid pellets (spirulina-based)
• 🦐 Occasional frozen brine shrimp or mysis shrimp
• 🥬 Blanched vegetables such as spinach or zucchini
• ⚠️ Avoid excessive high-protein foods to prevent Malawi bloat

📋 Red Empress Hap Cichlid Care Overview Table

✨ Highlight:

• The Red Empress Hap Cichlid is prized for its spectacular coloration and relatively peaceful temperament, making it one of the most desirable African cichlids for vibrant community setups.