Red Empress Pseudothropheus Species

Other Common Names

Scientific Name Pseudothropheus species

Family Cichlidae

Community African

Class African

Temperature 78ºF

Swimming Range Middle-Bottom

Adult Length 6-8 inches

Feeding Habits Fresh spinach, zucchini, peas and lettuce Live blood worms, crickets, brine shrimp, glass worms and tubifex worms. Frozen vegetable diet, daphnia, plankton, blood worms, beef heart, brine shrimp and glass worms. Freeze dried and tablet foods also accepted.

Compatibility A peaceful and territorial species that will mix well with other Africans and certain species of catfish such as Synodontis Catfish.

Habitat Lake Malawi Africa: Lots of rocks, driftwood and clay pots for creating territories. Live plants are a nice addition but may be eaten. The best choices for live plants are Java Fern and Java Moss.

Breeding Mouthbrooders: Males are primarily blue with red coloration and females are brown or silver in color.

Additional Comments Vegetation is very important in their diet to promote proper growth and coloration. African Cichlids are very popular with hobbyists due to their brilliant colors and breeding habits.