Taiwan Reef Cichlid
Protomelas sp. "Steveni Taiwan"
A striking Lake Malawi Haplochromis (Hap) known for the breathtaking color transformation of mature males. Originating from the Taiwan Reef area in Africa (despite the misleading name), they are active swimmers that require hard, alkaline water, a sandy substrate for digging, and plenty of rockwork. They are primarily herbivorous in the wild and prone to 'Malawi Bloat' if fed too much heavy protein; a diet rich in spirulina is required.
Taiwan Reef Cichlid At a Glance
Taiwan Reef Cichlid Tank Requirements
Will Taiwan Reef Cichlid fit in your tank?
Care guides tell you what Taiwan Reef Cichlid needs, the next question is whether your tank can safely provide it. Test Taiwan Reef Cichlid against your tank size, maintenance needs, and the fish you already keep before you buy.
Taiwan Reef Cichlid Water Parameters
Taiwan Reef Cichlid Temperament & Compatibility
Taiwan Reef Cichlid Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Male
Males mature to display a brilliant blue head, bright red/orange lower body, and a striking white dorsal blaze. They are highly territorial towards conspecifics and other similar-looking Haps. It is strongly recommended to keep only one male per aquarium to prevent severe aggression.
Differs in 4 traits from base species
Also known as: Show Male, Colored Male
Female / Unsexed Juvenile
Females and juveniles share a much more subdued silver body with vertical dark bands. They are smaller and significantly more peaceful than adult males. They are best kept in a harem ratio (3+ females per male) to help disperse the male's breeding aggression.
Differs in 4 traits from base species
Also known as: Female, Juvenile, Silver
Taiwan Reef Cichlid Care Guide Summary
The Taiwan Reef Cichlid, scientifically known as Protomelas sp. "Steveni Taiwan", belongs to the Cichlids - African family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 17 cm and have a compressed body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as semi-aggressive, this species primarily occupies the mid-level and bottom zones of the aquarium and produces a high level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Taiwan Reef Cichlid requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 280 litres and a tank length of at least 120 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 24°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 7.8–8.6 and a general hardness of 10–20 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
The Taiwan Reef Cichlid is a rewarding species to keep, provided its core environmental needs are met. This species is available in 2 varieties: Male and Female / Unsexed Juvenile. Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.
Taiwan Reef Cichlid Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Taiwan Reef Cichlid, a moderate water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the mid-level and bottom zones, the aquarium layout should prioritise open swimming space in the centre of the tank for free movement and sufficient floor space with hiding spots among rocks, wood, or dense planting. Useful additions include a sand substrate to accommodate their sifting behaviour and smooth gravel or rounded substrate to protect their sensitive barbels. Keepers should note that expect substrate disturbance, so lightweight décor should be secured and live planted layouts may be difficult to maintain, as this species tends to uproot or consume vegetation.
Taiwan Reef Cichlid Compatibility Notes
Classified as semi-aggressive, the Taiwan Reef Cichlid is adaptable and can be kept singly or in a small group, offering flexibility when planning a community tank. When choosing tankmates, conspecific aggression can be intense, especially in smaller tanks, territorial behaviour may cause issues if hiding spots or floor space are limited, and their energetic swimming style may stress more sedentary or timid species. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the mid-level and bottom zones can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Who Taiwan Reef Cichlid Is Actually For
Taiwan Reef Cichlid is best for a fishkeeper who wants a species that can settle into a calmer community setup and can provide someone who understands its individual space requirements. It makes the most sense for a hobbyist who will actually build around its needs, especially sand.
The most common mistake is treating Taiwan Reef Cichlid like any other community fish and skipping the soft sand it needs to forage safely. Another frequent problem is forcing it into an over-busy community when it would do better with more room or more deliberate tankmate choices.
Taiwan Reef Cichlid Recommended Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes that meet the minimum volume and length requirements for Taiwan Reef Cichlid.
75 Gallon Standard
90 Gallon Standard
125 Gallon Standard
150 Gallon High
180 Gallon Standard
350 Liter (120cm Deep)
Show 1 more tank size
Frequently Asked Questions About Taiwan Reef Cichlid
How big does Taiwan Reef Cichlid get?
Taiwan Reef Cichlid (Protomelas sp. "Steveni Taiwan") typically reaches a maximum adult size of approximately 17 cm. They have a compressed body shape and a moderate growth rate.
What tank size does Taiwan Reef Cichlid need?
A minimum aquarium volume of 280 litres and a tank length of at least 120 cm are recommended for Taiwan Reef Cichlid. This ensures enough swimming space and helps maintain stable water conditions.
What water parameters does Taiwan Reef Cichlid need?
Taiwan Reef Cichlid thrives in freshwater only conditions with a temperature range of 24–28°C, a pH between 7.8 and 8.6, and a general hardness of 10–20 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
Is Taiwan Reef Cichlid peaceful or aggressive?
Taiwan Reef Cichlid is classified as semi-aggressive with an aggression score of 6 out of 10. They can work in community setups but may clash with certain tankmates.
Can Taiwan Reef Cichlid live alone?
Yes, Taiwan Reef Cichlid can be kept singly or in a group. They are flexible and adapt well to both setups.
Does Taiwan Reef Cichlid have any special tank requirements?
Yes. Taiwan Reef Cichlid benefits from sand (sifters) and smooth gravel (sensitive barbels) in the aquarium. These features help replicate their natural habitat and promote overall health and well-being.
Useful setup supplies
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Guidarium Editorial Desk
Reviewed against Guidarium care, stocking, and compatibility standards. Read the editorial policy.
- Last reviewed
- May 11, 2026
- Last updated
- May 11, 2026
- Issues or corrections?
- Contact the editorial team
Plants That Suit Taiwan Reef Cichlid
These plants pair well with Taiwan Reef Cichlid based on shared water preferences, layout fit, and how likely they are to hold up in the same aquarium.
Afzel's Anubias
Anubias afzelii
Anubias Barteri
Anubias barteri
Congo Anubias
Anubias heterophylla
Gillet's Anubias
Anubias gilletii
Java Fern
Leptochilus pteropus
Pothos
Epipremnum aureum
Fish Similar to Taiwan Reef Cichlid
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Protomelas taeniolatus
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Buccochromis rhoadesii
Buccochromis rhoadesii
A massive, apex-predator Haplochromine cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi. They are open-water pursuit predators characterized by an immense mouth and a distinct diagonal stripe across the body. Due to their enormous adult size and strictly piscivorous nature, they require massive aquariums and can only be housed with similarly large, robust species. Any tank mate small enough to fit in their mouth will be eaten.
Three-Spot Torpedo Hap
Exochochromis anagenys
A striking, large predatory haplochromine cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi. Known for its torpedo-shaped body (fusiform), it is an open-water hunter that preys on smaller fish like mbuna. While highly predatory and requiring a massive tank, they are relatively mild-mannered toward tankmates too large to be swallowed. Conspecific males, however, are violently intolerant of one another.