Tangerine Tiger
Protomelas taeniolatus
Tangerine Tiger is a Likoma Island form of Protomelas taeniolatus, sold in the hobby for its strong barred pattern, blue head, yellow-orange body color, and red-orange fin accents in mature males. It is a larger Lake Malawi hap that does best with open swimming room and similarly sized peacock and hap tank mates.
Origin and Habitat
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Native Region: Likoma Island form of a Lake Malawi species; Protomelas taeniolatus is endemic to Lake Malawi.
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Natural Habitat: Shallow, rocky, sediment-free habitat where wild fish graze aufwuchs from rocks and also take small invertebrates.
Physical Characteristics
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Size: 8-9 inches.
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Coloration: Mature males can show a blue head, yellow-orange body, dark vertical barring, and red-orange fin accents; females remain gray to subdued.
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Body Shape: Larger hap body with an active swimming profile.
Behavior and Temperament
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Temperament: Mildly aggressive.
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Social Behavior: Best kept with similar-sized Lake Malawi haps and peacocks in a spacious aquarium.
Aquarium Care
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Tank Size: A 75 gallon aquarium or larger is recommended.
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Water Parameters: 74-84°F, pH 7.8-8.6, hard water.
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Tank Setup: Provide sand, open swimming room, some rock structure, and strong filtration.
Diet and Feeding
Breeding
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Breeding Type: Maternal mouthbrooder.
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Breeding Notes: Females hold eggs and fry in the mouth. Fry should be protected after release if you want better survival.
Tank Mates
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Compatible With: Similar-sized Lake Malawi haps and sturdy peacocks.
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Avoid: Small fish, timid species, and overly aggressive cichlids that may dominate space or feeding.
