Ornatus Thick Lips (Rare)

Ornatus Thick Lips

Protomelas ornatus

Ornatus Thick Lips is a rare Lake Malawi hap with the heavier lips and mature male presence that make Protomelas species so distinctive. Color can vary by individual and source line, but mature males can become excellent display fish in a larger hap aquarium.

Origin and Habitat

• Native Region: Lake Malawi.
• Natural Habitat: Rocky and intermediate areas where fish can forage around structure.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: 8-10 inches.
• Coloration: Mature males show the strongest color; individual color can vary when fish are not tied to a single collection point.
• Body Shape: Medium-large hap body with thicker lips and a robust profile.

Behavior and Temperament

• Temperament: Mildly aggressive.
• Social Behavior: Best with similar-size peacocks and haps in a spacious aquarium.

Aquarium Care

• Tank Size: A 75 gallon aquarium or larger is recommended, with larger tanks preferred for adult males.
• Water Parameters: 74-84°F, pH 7.4-8.4, hard water.
• Tank Setup: Use sand, rockwork for cover and sight breaks, open swimming room, 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 may defend preferred areas. Females hold eggs and fry in the mouth, and fry should be protected after release.

Tank Mates

• Compatible With: Lake Malawi peacocks and haps of similar size and temperament.
• Avoid: Small fish, very aggressive mbuna, and cramped tanks.