Super Red Empress – Intense Colour, Unmatched Elegance
Turn your aquarium into a vivid display of natural beauty with the Super Red Empress (Protomelas taeniolatus), a brilliantly coloured Malawi cichlid known for its fiery red body and striking metallic blue highlights. A selective colour strain of the classic Red Empress, this fish is an absolute standout in any African cichlid setup.
 
Key Features:
Scientific Name: Protomelas taeniolatus (Super Red strain)
Common Name: Super Red Empress
Origin: Lake Malawi (selectively bred for colour)
Adult Size: 15–18 cm
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Tank Size: Minimum 200 litres
Water Conditions: pH 7.8–8.6 | Temp 24–28°C
 
Why You’ll Love It:
Intense Colouration: Males develop deep, rich reds contrasted with vibrant electric blue on the head and fins.
Commanding Presence: Confident and bold without being overly aggressive – a natural centrepiece.
Ideal for Malawi Displays: Pairs well with other haps and peacocks of similar size and temperament.
 
Care Level: Intermediate
Requires a well-maintained tank with good filtration, stable water parameters, and plenty of open swimming space. Feed a varied diet of high-quality cichlid pellets, with added vegetable matter and occasional protein.