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