Fenestratus - Protomelas fenestratus

Scientific name: Protomelas fenestratus

Common name: Fenestratus

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 20 - 25 cm (7.87 - 9.84 inch)

014

Recommended pH range: 7.5 - 8.5

Recommended water hardness: 8 - 20°N (142.86 - 357.14ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature range: 24 - 28 °C (75.2 - 82.4°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: Africa

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Overview

Protomelas fenestratus, commonly known as the Fenestratus Hap, is a striking haplochromine cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi. Males develop intense blue, red, and gold coloration, while females remain silvery-gray with faint vertical barring. In the wild, this species is known for blowing jets of sand to uncover hidden invertebrates and detritus, a behavior that makes them both fascinating and active in the aquarium.

Care & Tank Setup

• Tank size: Single adult requires at least 300 l / 80 gal. For a harem (1 male with several females) or a mixed Malawi community, provide 450–600 l / 120–160 gal with a tank length of 150+ cm.
• Water parameters: pH 7.5–8.5, hardness 8–20 °dGH, temperature 24–28 °C (75–82 °F). Replicate stable, alkaline conditions typical of Lake Malawi.
• Aquascape: Provide ample rock formations and caves to define territories. Leave open sandy areas for feeding behavior.
• Filtration: High-performance filtration is crucial; these cichlids produce significant waste. Weekly 30–40% water changes recommended.

Diet & Feeding

Although classified as a carnivore, P. fenestratus is best maintained on a varied diet to prevent digestive problems:

• Staple: High-quality sinking cichlid pellets and spirulina-based foods to balance protein intake.
• Protein sources: Frozen or live foods such as krill, mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, chopped earthworms.
• Occasional treats: Bloodworms or insect larvae, fed sparingly to avoid bloating.
• Avoid mammalian meats and fatty foods, which can lead to health issues.

Behavior & Compatibility

• With conspecifics: Males can be territorial, especially in smaller tanks. Best kept as a harem (1 male with multiple females) or in a larger community of haplochromine cichlids.
• Other fish: Compatible with medium-to-large Malawi haps and peaceful mbuna. Avoid very small species, which may be bullied, and overly aggressive tankmates.

Sexing

Males display vibrant coloration and may reach larger sizes, while females remain smaller and silvery-gray with subtle barring. Mature males sometimes develop more pronounced head and jaw structure.

Breeding

P. fenestratus is a maternal mouthbrooder. After courtship, the female collects fertilized eggs in her mouth, where they incubate for about 3 weeks. During this period she will not eat and often hides among rocks. Once fry are released, they can be raised on newly hatched brine shrimp and finely crushed cichlid flakes. For best results, maintain breeding groups in large, stable aquaria.

Lifespan

With proper care, Fenestratus haps live 8–10 years in captivity. Some reports of 12–15 years exist in optimal conditions.

Origin

Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa, where it inhabits sandy and rocky transitional zones.

Short description

The Fenestratus Hap is an attractive medium-to-large Malawi cichlid known for its sand-blowing feeding strategy and vivid male coloration. It requires spacious aquaria, alkaline water, and a carefully structured community to thrive. Best suited for experienced cichlid keepers who can provide both the space and the specialized water chemistry these fish demand.

At-a-Glance (Care Box)

• Size (captive): 20–25 cm TL (8–10")
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive; harem or large Malawi community
• pH: 7.5–8.5  |  GH: 8–20 °dGH
• Temp: 24–28 °C (75–82 °F)
• Tank: Single ≥ 300 l / 80 gal; group ≥ 450–600 l / 120–160 gal
• Diet: Carnivorous with plant supplement (pellets, shrimp, krill, spirulina)
• Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder
• Lifespan: 8–10 years (up to 15 in ideal conditions)

Picture

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.