Red Empress Trio (1 male + 2 female)

The Red Empress (Protomelas taeniolatus) is a popular and visually striking cichlid species native to Lake Malawi. Known for its vibrant red and orange hues combined with contrasting blue and green accents, this fish is a favourite among aquarists seeking bold colour and dynamic behaviour. The Red Empress is moderately aggressive and requires a well-structured aquarium to thrive. Red Empress Trio (1 male + 2 female) Shop live aquarium fish online with confidence, with our livestock delivery guarantee. Features of Red Empress Grows up to 15 cm in length Males display vivid red, orange, and blue coloration, while females are generally duller Moderately aggressive and territorial, especially during breeding Active swimmer with strong personality Hardy and adaptable species The Best Aquarium Size for Red Empress A minimum aquarium size of 200 litres is recommended to provide adequate space for swimming and territory establishment. Plenty of rocks and caves are essential to mimic its natural habitat. After an Aquarium for your fish? Browse our Aquarium Tank Selection here Tank Mate Compatibility for Red Empress Compatible with other moderately aggressive Lake Malawi cichlids of similar size, including: Yellow Lab (Labidochromis caeruleus) Acei Cichlid (Pseudotropheus acei) Rusty Cichlid (Iodotropheus sprengerae) Demasoni Cichlid (Pseudotropheus demasoni) Other Protomelas species Avoid overly aggressive or much larger fish that could cause stress or injury. Diet for Red Empress Omnivorous diet consisting of high-quality cichlid pellets, flakes, and occasional live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp and bloodworms. Supplement with vegetable matter to support digestive health. Browse our High Quality Fish Food online Aquarium Setup for Red Empress Aquarium Filtration Strong biological and mechanical filtration is vital to maintain water quality in an active cichlid tank. Browse aquarium filters here.   Aquarium Plants Plants may be uprooted; sturdy species like Anubias or Java Fern attached to rocks are recommended. Artificial plants are suitable alternatives. Interested in live plants for your aquariums? Browse live plants here.   Aquarium Lighting Moderate lighting helps showcase the Red Empress’s vivid colours. Need aquarium lighting for your fish tank? Browse our  Aquarium Lighting.   Aquarium Heating Maintain water temperature between 24°C and 28°C to replicate Lake Malawi’s environment. Looking for a suitable fish tank heater? Shop aquarium heaters here.   Aquarium Substrate Fine sand or smooth gravel substrate encourages natural behaviours. Shop a  variety of Aquarium Substrates here   Aquarium Decorations Create a rocky aquascape with caves and crevices for territorial boundaries and shelter. Use inert rocks such as limestone to maintain alkaline, hard water conditions typical of Lake Malawi. Check out our huge range of Aquarium Ornaments