Protomelas Annectens

Protomelas annectens

Protomelas Annectens is a very rare Lake Malawi hap that is hard to find captive-bred and raised in the United States. Males may take time to develop full color, but the species rewards patient grow-out in a spacious peacock and hap setup.

Origin and Habitat

• Native Region: Lake Malawi.
• Natural Habitat: Sandy shallows, often around areas with other larger cichlids.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: 8-10 inches.
• Coloration: Mature males develop the strongest color; young or newly coloring males may show only partial display.
• Body Shape: Medium-large Protomelas body with a strong but not overly bulky hap profile.

Behavior and Temperament

• Temperament: Mildly aggressive.
• Social Behavior: Best with Lake Malawi haps and robust peacocks of similar size.

Aquarium Care

• Tank Size: A 75 gallon aquarium or larger is recommended; larger tanks are better for adult males.
• Water Parameters: 74-84°F, pH 7.4-8.4, hard water.
• Tank Setup: Use sand, open swimming space, some stable rockwork, sight breaks, and strong filtration.

Diet and Feeding

• Primary Staple: Feed a quality daily diet such as Ron’s Peacock & Hap Adult Food.
• Juveniles: Growing fish can be fed Ron’s Juvenile Food.
• Fry: Newly released fry should be started on Ron’s Fry Food.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed 1–2 small meals daily and avoid overfeeding.

Breeding

• Breeding Type: Maternal mouthbrooder.
• Breeding Notes: Males display and females mouthbrood eggs and fry. Fry should be protected after release.

Tank Mates

• Compatible With: Lake Malawi haps and robust peacocks of similar size.
• Avoid: Aggressive mbuna, small fish, and undersized aquariums.