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Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps

Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps
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Protomelas sp. 'spilonotus mozambique' Hai Reef
Genus: Protomelas
Biotope: Upper rocky habitat, usually in mid-water a few meters above the substrate; also above intermediate habitat. Found in shallow water and locally at depths of about 5–7 m.
Geographic distribution: Eastern coast of Lake Malawi between Undu Point (Tanzania) and Londo Bay (Mozambique).
Typical adult size: Males up to about 18 cm total length; females up to about 14 cm.
Sexual dimorphism: Males larger and show breeding coloration even outside peak breeding periods. Females remain silvery-beige with black bars and stripes, lacking flank coloration.
Aquarium setup: Spacious aquarium with open swimming area and rocky structures providing caves.
Diet: Carnivorous. Feeds in mid-water on insects and small planktonic crustaceans, including items that fall onto the water surface. Also consumes plankton when available.
Breeding: Breeding in the wild not directly observed. Presumed cave spawner similar to other members of the P. spilonotus group. A fry-guarding female was observed at about 5 m depth caring for roughly 20 young.
Aggression: Males territorial in captivity; generally less aggressive than some other Protomelas species.
Special notes: Distinguished by a midlateral stripe composed of small regular blotches. Closely related to Protomelas spilonotus and other members of the spilonotus group. Population density low and species rarely collected.

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Photo: © Ad Konings
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Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps.
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