Thaiwan Reef

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About the Taiwan Reef Cichlid

The Taiwan Reef Cichlid (Protomelas sp. “Steveni Taiwan”) is a spectacular Lake Malawi haplochromine cichlid named after Taiwan Reef, a rocky reef locality in Lake Malawi—not Taiwan the country. It is an undescribed Protomelas form and is commonly traded under names including Steveni Taiwan and Taiwan Reef.

Mature males are particularly impressive, developing a metallic blue head and body with vivid yellow-orange and red coloration, especially through the dorsal and anal fins. Females are considerably more subdued, often displaying a silvery body with darker barring.

This is an active, moderately territorial Malawi hap that benefits from a spacious aquarium with rockwork, open swimming areas and hard, alkaline water. Males become particularly territorial when displaying or breeding, so providing multiple territories and maintaining a suitable female-to-male ratio is important.

The Taiwan Reef Cichlid is a maternal mouthbrooder, with females carrying eggs and developing fry in their mouths. Keeping one male with several females is generally the best approach.

Quick Care Guide

• Scientific Name: Protomelas sp. “Steveni Taiwan”
• Common Name: Taiwan Reef Cichlid, Taiwan Reef Hap, Steveni Taiwan
• Family: Cichlidae
• Type: Lake Malawi Hap
• Adult Size: Approximately 15–18 cm
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive
• Care Level: Intermediate
• Minimum Aquarium: 350–400 L+
• Temperature: 24–28°C
• pH: 7.8–8.6
• Water Hardness: Hard, alkaline
• Diet: Omnivore
• Tank Level: Middle to bottom
• Group Size: 1 male with 3–5 females
• Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa
• Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder

Frequently Asked Questions

How big does a Taiwan Reef Cichlid get?

Adults generally reach around 15–18 cm, with males growing larger than females.

Are Taiwan Reef Cichlids aggressive?

They are semi-aggressive. Males can become territorial, particularly when establishing breeding territories.

What should I feed a Taiwan Reef Cichlid?

Feed a quality Lake Malawi cichlid pellet as the staple diet, supplemented with suitable frozen or prepared foods. Avoid excessive amounts of heavy, inappropriate foods.

Can Taiwan Reef Cichlids live with Peacock Cichlids?

Yes, they can work well with suitably sized Peacocks and other compatible Malawi Haps, provided the aquarium is large enough and tank mates have similar temperaments.

How many should I keep?

A single male with several females is recommended. Keeping multiple males requires a considerably larger aquarium with enough territories to reduce conflict.

Why isn't my male showing strong colours?

Male colouration can be affected by age, dominance, stress and the presence of females. Mature dominant males typically display their strongest colours when settled and ready to breed.

Common Mistakes

• ❌ Keeping multiple males in a small aquarium
• ❌ Using soft or acidic water
• ❌ Keeping them with tiny fish that may be bullied
• ❌ Overcrowding the aquarium
• ❌ Providing inadequate filtration
• ❌ Expecting juvenile males to immediately display adult colouration