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Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps

Lake Malawi cichlids — species, locations & maps
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Petrotilapia sp. 'likoma barred' Ndumbi Rocks.jpg Protomelas marginatus 'Ndumbi Rocks'.jpg Protomelas sp. 'spilonotus likoma' Ndumbi Rocks.jpg Protomelas sp. 'steveni imperial' Ndumbi Rocks.jpg Pseudotropheus sp. 'ndumbi gold' Ndumbi Rocks.jpg
Previous pageNext pageProtomelas sp. 'spilonotus likoma' Ndumbi Rocks
Genus: Protomelas
Biotope: Wave-washed, sediment-free rocky habitat; typically in midwater about 1 m from the substrate, often just below the surface.
Geographic distribution: Likoma and Chizumulu Islands (Malawi); Chilucha Reef near Metangula (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; females smaller. Males at Chilucha Reef may exhibit a white blaze on the head.
Aquarium setup: Requires spacious aquarium with open swimming area and rocky structures providing caves. Only one adult male per tank recommended.
Diet: Carnivorous. Feeds on invertebrates taken from the water column, including insects that fall onto the water surface. Forms small foraging groups rarely exceeding 10 individuals.
Breeding: Breeding males present year-round. Males defend caves or sheltered rocky sites as spawning locations. Spawning occurs inside the cave. Females guard fry for several weeks after first release.
Aggression: Males territorial during breeding; generally less aggressive than some other Protomelas species.
Special notes: Characterized by large spots along the dorsal base and a very prominent midlateral stripe. Closely related to Protomelas spilonotus and possibly a geographical race. 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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