Description
The Red Empress – Namalenje Island (Protomelas taeniolatus “Namalenje”) is a vibrant and popular cichlid native to Lake Malawi. Renowned for its striking red and orange hues contrasted with electric blue markings, this variant from Namalenje Island is prized for its intense coloration and dynamic behaviour. It is a moderately aggressive species that thrives in well-maintained, rocky aquarium environments.
Features of Red Empress – Namalenje Island
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Reaches up to 15 cm in length
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Males exhibit brilliant red and orange body coloration with blue accents
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Females are typically less colourful, displaying more subdued tones
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Moderately territorial, especially during breeding
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Active and hardy Mbuna species
The Best Aquarium Size for Red Empress – Namalenje Island
A minimum tank size of 200 litres is recommended to provide ample swimming space and territory. The aquarium should have plenty of rocks and caves to simulate its natural rocky habitat.
Tank Mate Compatibility for Red Empress – Namalenje Island
Suitable tank mates include other moderately aggressive Lake Malawi cichlids such as:
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Yellow Lab (Labidochromis caeruleus)
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Acei Cichlid (Pseudotropheus acei)
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Rusty Cichlid (Iodotropheus sprengerae)
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Demasoni Cichlid (Pseudotropheus demasoni)
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Other Protomelas species
Avoid overly aggressive or significantly larger fish to reduce stress and conflict.
Diet for Red Empress – Namalenje Island
Omnivorous diet requiring high-quality cichlid pellets or flakes supplemented with occasional live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp and bloodworms. Including vegetable matter helps maintain digestive health.
Aquarium Setup for Red Empress – Namalenje Island
Aquarium Filtration
Robust mechanical and biological filtration is essential to maintain clean water in active cichlid tanks.
Aquarium Plants
Plants may be uprooted; sturdy species such as Anubias or Java Fern attached to rocks are recommended. Artificial plants are also suitable.
Aquarium Lighting
Moderate lighting enhances the vibrant colours without causing stress.
Aquarium Heating
Maintain temperatures between 24°C and 28°C to replicate Lake Malawi conditions.
Aquarium Substrate
Fine sand or smooth gravel substrate supports natural behaviours.
Aquarium Decorations
Create a rocky aquascape with caves and crevices to provide shelter and territorial boundaries. Use inert rocks like limestone to maintain the alkaline, hard water typical of Lake Malawi.
