malawi

Protomelas Boadzulu Red Empress F1

🐟 Protomelas sp. “Boadzulu – Red Empress” — Species Description
📏 Size

Adult size: 16–20 cm (6–8 inches)

Males grow larger and more elongated than females

Females remain smaller and more slender

🌍 Occurrence (Natural Origin)

Endemic to Lake Malawi, East Africa

Naturally occurs around Boadzulu Island, in the southern part of the lake

Habitat:

Intermediate zones (sand–rock transition areas)

Shallow to mid-depth water

Areas with scattered rocks and open sand

“Red Empress” is a trade name for the Boadzulu Island population of Protomelas. It is a true geographic locality fish, not a hybrid.

🎨 Appearance

Adult males:

Bright metallic blue head

Intense red to orange body

Subtle vertical barring on flanks

Dorsal fin often edged with red or orange

Females & juveniles:

Silver-grey to beige

Faint vertical barring

One of the most colorful Protomelas species when fully mature

🍽️ Diet (Preferred Food)

In the wild:

Omnivorous benthic feeder

Feeds on:

Small crustaceans

Insect larvae

Zooplankton

Organic material over sand and rocks

In the aquarium:

High-quality Malawi Hap / Peacock pellets

Frozen foods:

Mysis shrimp

Brine shrimp

Krill (moderate amounts)

Occasional vegetable matter (spirulina-based food) is beneficial

⚠️ Avoid strict herbivore diets and excessive fatty foods.

🧠 Behavior & Temperament

Moderately peaceful Hap

Territorial mainly during breeding

Much calmer than Mbuna, but more assertive than most Aulonocara

Best kept:

In Hap / Peacock community aquariums

With species such as Aulonocara, Copadichromis, Otopharynx, Placidochromis

Not suitable for aggressive Mbuna tanks

🏞️ Preferred Aquarium Conditions

Tank size: Minimum 400–450 L (105–120 gallons)

pH: 7.8–8.6

Hardness: Moderate to hard

Temperature: 24–28 °C (75–82 °F)

Substrate: Fine sand

Décor: Open swimming space with some rock structures

🧾 Quick Summary
Feature Details
Scientific Name Protomelas sp.
Trade Name Red Empress
Locality Boadzulu Island
Group Haplochromine (Non-Mbuna)
Adult Size 16–20 cm (6–8 in)
Origin Southern Lake Malawi
Diet Omnivorous (invertebrates & pellets)
Temperament Moderately peaceful
Best Setup Hap / Peacock community tank