Taiwan Reef Cichlid
Rainbow colors, primarily blue, make this a sought-after addition to most cichlid tanks. The Taiwan Reef is an herbivore, so make sure food has some spirulina and other veggies. Even at two inches, these cichlids have beautiful color and are peaceful additions to a community cichlid tank.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Protomelas steveni “Taiwan Reef” |
|---|---|
| Origin | Taiwanee Reef, Lake Malawi, Africa (not Taiwan) |
| Care Level | Easy to moderate |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive (males territorial) |
| Adult Size | Up to 5–6″ |
| Lifespan | 8–10 years |
FAQ
What type of diet does the Taiwan Reef Cichlid require?
The Taiwan Reef Cichlid is primarily herbivorous and benefits from a diet that includes spirulina and other vegetable-based foods.
Are Taiwan Reef Cichlids suitable for community tanks?
Yes, they are peaceful additions to community cichlid tanks, though males can become territorial, so proper tank setup and spacing are recommended.
How big do Taiwan Reef Cichlids grow?
They can grow up to 5–6 inches in adult size.

Natalie Edmunds –
The fish arrived quickly and looked healthy. Their blue coloration is vibrant and they’ve been active in the tank for two months. I feed them spirulina flakes daily and they seem to enjoy it. They’re not overly aggressive and get along well with other cichlids.
Madeleine Morgan –
I was impressed by the color and calm behavior. The fish stayed active and didn’t show signs of aggression even with a few other cichlids. I’ve added more plant-based food recently and they seem to thrive on it.
Peter Bower –
Great addition to my tank. The fish are colorful and peaceful. I noticed they spend time near the back wall, which suggests they like to explore. Feeding them veggies daily keeps them healthy and active.