[Ebook] 500 freshwater aquarium fish – Cichlids – Fenestratus (Protomelas fenestratus)

Also known in the trade as Haplochromis steveni “Thick Bars” this is one of several Protomelas species available, some of which are still awaiting scientific description. Male Fenestratus are the more brightly colored of the sexes, with the females having a more inconspicuous gray to silver coloration.

Synonym

• Haplochromis fenestratus

Distribution

• Throughout Lake Malawi

Size

• Around 6in (15cm).

Behavior

• Territorial but not overaggressive.

Diet

• Wide range of foods accepted, but livefoods preferred.

Aquarium

• Properly constructed backgrounds with plenty of boltholes and sandy areas. Must be well lit. Well-filtered, medium-hard, alkaline water important. Temperature range: 75-79 F (24-26 C).

Breeding

• Males construct sand nests to which they attract females, female incubates eggs