Red Empress Cichlid

Red Empress Cichlid (Protomelas Taeniolatus)

The Red Empress Cichlid, also known as the Red Empress Hap or Spindle Hap, is a captivating fish known for its vibrant coloration and intriguing behavior. This species showcases a stunning deep red or orange body coloration with iridescent blue or purple highlights on the scales. The males exhibit more intense colors, while the females display a milder hue. Adult Red Empress Cichlids can reach a size of around 6 to 8 inches.

In terms of temperament, Red Empress Cichlids are generally peaceful and not overly aggressive. They are hardy and easily adapt to a wider range of water parameters making them ideal entry-level fish to keep for beginner aquarium hobbyists. However, they can display territorial behavior, especially during breeding periods. They prefer the middle to upper levels of the aquarium and are known for their active swimming patterns.

When it comes to tank mates, it is important to choose companions that can handle the semi-aggressive nature of the Red Empress Cichlid. Suitable tank mates include other African Rift Lake cichlids, such as Peacock Cichlids and Haplochromis Cichlids. It is best to avoid small, timid fish or species with similar territorial tendencies to prevent conflicts.

Red Empress Cichlids are not shoaling or schooling fish and do well as individuals or in small groups. Keeping a male with multiple females can help spread out aggression and promote natural breeding behaviors.

As for diet, Red Empress Cichlids are omnivorous, but a significant portion of the meals should consist of high-fiber vegetable matter as they enjoy grazing on algae growing on rocks in their tank. Their daily staple should include spirulina flakes, algae wafers, or blanched spinach/lettuce. Live or frozen brine shrimp, Daphnia, and bloodworms are great supplements to their diets. To prevent aggression and overfeeding, feed them 3 to 4 times a day in small amounts they can consume within 30 seconds. Red Empress Cichlids are prone to becoming overweight due to their greedy nature.

Creating an ideal tank habitat for Red Empress Cichlids involves replicating their natural environment. A spacious aquarium with plenty of swimming space is essential. Provide a substrate of fine sand to mimic their native lakebed. Adding rocky structures and caves made of stacked rocks or slate can create hiding spots and territories for the fish. Suitable plants for the aquarium include hardy species like Java Fern, Anubias, and Vallisneria. Lighting should be moderate, providing both shaded areas and areas with gentle illumination.

In terms of water parameters, Red Empress Cichlids thrive in freshwater conditions. The minimum recommended aquarium size for a single Red Empress Cichlid is around 55 gallons, but larger tanks are preferred, especially when housing multiple individuals. The water should have a pH range of 7.5-8.5, hardness between 10-20 dGH, and a temperature range of 75-82°F (24-28°C).