Our Guide To Keeping Red Empress Cichlid Fish

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Protomelas taeniolatus
   • Common name: Red Empress Cichlid
   • Family: Cichlidae
   • Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa
   • Adult length: 15 cm
   • Lifespan: 8 to 10 years

2. Tank Setup:

   • Red Empress Cichlids prefer a spacious tank with rocky caves and open swimming areas. A minimum tank size of 200L is recommended for a small group of these fish.
   • Provide ample hiding places using rocks and aquarium-safe structures to mimic their natural habitat. Sand substrate is preferred to accommodate their digging behavior.

3. Water Parameters:

   • Red Empress Cichlids thrive in slightly alkaline water conditions with a pH range of 7.8 to 8.6.
   • Keep the water temperature between 24 to 28°C (75 to 82°F).

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • A moderate to strong water flow is suitable for these fish, so choose a filter that provides efficient mechanical and biological filtration.

5. Diet:

   • Red Empress Cichlids are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods. Offer them a balanced diet consisting of high-quality cichlid pellets or flakes as a staple.
   • Supplement their diet with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, krill, and vegetable matter such as spirulina flakes to provide essential nutrients and mimic their natural diet.

6. Tank mates:

   • Red Empress Cichlids can be kept with other similar-sized, non-aggressive cichlids. Avoid housing them with smaller, timid fish that may be bullied.
   • They are compatible with other Malawi cichlids and peaceful species such as Synodontis catfish.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • Red Empress Cichlids are active swimmers and territorial, especially during breeding. Provide enough space and hiding spots to reduce aggression.
   • Avoid keeping them with overly aggressive or fin-nipping fish species that may cause stress or injury.