Edit Protomelas fenestratus
You can suggest changes to this profile. A moderator will review each change.
Name
Scientific name
Protomelas fenestratus
Described by
Not recorded
Family
Cichlidae
Common names
Fenestratus
Photograph credits
All 1 credited
Summary
Known as the fenestratus, Protomelas fenestratus is a cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi, found in the northern and southwestern parts of the l…
Size and aquarium
Maximum size
140mm, standard length
Aquarium size
Minimum length 120 cm, Minimum depth 45 cm, Minimum height 38 cm
Water
Water conditions
Temperature 24–28°C, pH 7.6–8.8
Hardness
10–25dGH
Conductivity
Not recorded
Behaviour
Temperament
Territorial
Social needs
One male with several females
Community suitability
Not recorded
Where it lives
Countries, regions, rivers and lakes
Malawi, Tanzania, Lake Malawi
Writing
Etymology
Not written yet
Distribution
Endemic to Lake Malawi. It is found in the northern and southwestern parts of the lake.
Habitat
It inhabits rocky parts of the shoreline and the intermediate sandy zones beyond these.
Aquarium size
120 ∗ 45 ∗ 38 cm - ~205 litres.
Maintenance
Much of the aquarium should contain piles of rocks arranged to form caves with small areas of open water between. A sandy substrate is best.
Water conditions
Temperature: 24 – 28 °C pH: 7.6-8.8 Hardness: 10-25°H
Diet
It will accept most foods offered but live and frozen varieties should form the bulk of the diet.
Behaviour and compatibility
A gentle species which is not suited to the boisterous mbuna community, although it does become territorial when breeding. Suitable tankmates include Aulonocar…
Sexual dimorphism
The male is larger and much more colourful than the female and has extended dorsal, anal and pelvic fins.
Reproduction
Possible. Maternal mouthbrooder. For the best results, it should be spawned in a species tank. Adult fish tend to be quite expensive, so a more feasible option…
Notes
This species has an interesting method of feeding in nature. It will 'blow' sediment from the surface of rocks and feed on morsels that are uncovered. Protomel…
References
References
No references