After selling my Kadango trio, I was looking for a similar type of fish—a striking and impressive Utaka. I came across Protomelas sp. "steveni taiwan" and purchased a nearly mature pair. The male had already started to show some color, though he was initially quite submissive in the company of his tank mates.
Behavior and Coloration
Protomelas sp. "steveni taiwan" is renowned as one of the most vibrant cichlids from Lake Malawi. Males develop a stunning metallic blue head, while the body features yellow and orange hues, often with prominent vertical bars. Females, typical for many Utaka species, are more modest in silver-grey with dark spots. It is a peaceful fish that does well in a community tank with other Malawi cichlids, provided they are not overly aggressive.
Habitat and Tank Setup
In the wild, this species is primarily found in rocky habitats and transition zones, where it grazes on algae (aufwuchs) and small invertebrates. In the aquarium, they require plenty of open swimming space, making a tank of at least 250 liters necessary. The setup should include fine sand and rock formations to provide both caves and hiding spots.
Water Parameters and Care
Like most fish from Lake Malawi, they require hard and alkaline water. A $pH$ of 7.5-8.5 and a temperature between 24-27°C are ideal. Since they are sensitive to poor water quality, regular water changes and efficient filtration are essential to maintain their vibrant colors and overall health. I look forward to sharing more as they settle in and reach their full potential.
