Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara nyassae) Care Guide

One of the most colorful African cichlids, named for the dazzling peacock-like display of blues, reds, and yellows in males. Native to Lake Malawi and relatively peaceful for an African cichlid.

Overview

Aulonocara nyassae is a species in the family Cichlidae. One of the most colorful African cichlids, named for the dazzling peacock-like display of blues, reds, and yellows in males. Native to Lake Malawi and relatively peaceful for an African cichlid. Many color varieties exist, both natural and selectively bred.

Taxonomy

Family: Cichlidae
Genus: Aulonocara
Scientific name: Aulonocara nyassae
Other names: Aulonocara
Origin: Africa, Lake Malawi

Habitat

Endemic to Lake Malawi in the East African Rift, where it inhabits intermediate rocky-sandy zones at depths from a few metres to over 20 m. Males develop intense blue and yellow nuptial colouration; the genus Aulonocara comprises around 20 described species often called peacock cichlids.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 200 L
Temperature: 24-28 °C
pH: 7.5-8.5
GH: 10-20 °dGH
Water flow: moderate
Adult size: 10-15 cm
Lifespan: 6-10 years
Difficulty: intermediate

Diet

Classified as omnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 2x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: semi-aggressive
Swimming level: middle
Compatible tank mates: Other Peacock Cichlids, Synodontis Petricola, Bristlenose Pleco
Avoid with: Mbunas, Small Tetras, Shrimp

Breeding

Breeding strategy: mouthbrooder
Breeding difficulty: intermediate