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Protomelas taeniolatus taeniolatus is found in deeper regions at rocky coasts but also in intermediate zones from rocks to sand. It's a species with several geographic variants which are different in color. They're found all around the lake. This variant can be found near Mdoka. Not so long ago this species was described as Protomelas taeniolatus but because the shape of the variant which is found near the Islands Chinyankwazi and Chinyamwezi differs from the shape of Protomelas taeniolatus, this variant is temporary considered to be a subspecies with the temporary name Protomelas taeniolatus dejunctus. Because of this the name Protomelas taeniolatus is temporary changed to Protomelas taeniolatus taeniolatus. The males of these species can grow, depending on the place where they are found, to about 13 cm to 19 cm in the lake. In the aquarium however they can grow taller because of a good feeding. The males can then grow a little larger, females grow not as large as males. Protomelas taeniolatus taeniolatus is a cichlid which can be hold best with multiple females and other peaceful species in a large tank with a lot of swimming space and hiding places. It's possible to keep them together with peaceful mbunas but it's necessary there's enough space for them. In the lake they are mainly feeding themselves with algae which they find on the rocks. In the aquarium they are comfortable with any food. They take everything they get offered, like spirulina pellets, mysis, artemia, cyclops and shrimp-peas mix. Food rich of algae like spirulina pellets or flakes is very important to them so this should not be missing on their menu. 
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