Protomelas Pleurotaenia

Datasheet

General Description

Protomelas Pleurotaenia is a species of cichlid with a maximum size of 14.0cm. Endemic to Lake Malawi, specifically found in Nkhata Bay and Monkey Bay, this species inhabits beds of vegetation between rocky and sandy areas. It has a unique feeding behavior of blowing at the top layer of the substrate to uncover and consume invertebrates and other food sources.

Aquarium Setup

For a suitable tank setup for Protomelas Pleurotaenia, it is recommended that the aquarium contains piles of rocks forming caves with open water spaces in between, mimicking its natural habitat. A sandy substrate is ideal, and adding clumps of Vallisneria can further replicate its native environment. The water conditions should have a hardness of 10-25 dH, a pH range of 7.6-8.8, and a temperature between 24-28°C (see table).

Behaviour

Protomelas Pleurotaenia is a gentle species not suited for a boisterous mbuna community, though it exhibits territorial behavior during breeding. Males are highly territorial, necessitating a large tank if more than one is kept. It is advisable to have multiple females per male. Suitable tankmates include Aulonocara, Copadichromis, and other peaceful Malawi species.

Feeding and Diet

This species is adaptable in its diet, accepting various foods offered; however, live and frozen varieties should constitute the majority of its diet. In nature, Protomelas Pleurotaenia feeds by blowing at the substrate to uncover prey, such as invertebrates and other small organisms.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Limited information is available on captive breeding of Protomelas Pleurotaenia, but it likely follows a maternal mouthbrooding pattern seen in other genus species. The male exhibits sexual dimorphism, being larger and more vibrantly colored than the female, and possessing elongated dorsal, anal, and pelvic fins.

Habitat and Distribution

Endemic to Lake Malawi, Protomelas Pleurotaenia is commonly found in Nkhata Bay and Monkey Bay, typically dwelling in areas with a mix of rocks, sand, and vegetation within the lake.