The fish is popular in the aquarium hobby due to the bright rainbow-like colors of adult males and its relatively peaceful temperament.

The red empress is endemic to Lake Malawi and occurs in sediment free, rocky habitats in relatively shallow waters.

The anal, dorsal, pectoral, and caudal fins are long to help the fish move quickly through the water.

Moreover, the front of each fin is made softer to compatible with water dynamics to gain maximum speeds.

At this time the male will guard quite a large amount of territory and chase away any fish that enters his 'lair'.