Strawberry Peacock Cichlid
Aulonocara, or the Peacock Cichlid, is a rock dwelling cichlid from Lake Malawi. There are many different varieties of aulonocara. The strawberry peacock cichlid is absolutely stunning. These fish are a bright reddish-pink and some even have some interesting dots that cover their fins. Malawi cichlids thrive with a sandy substrate and plenty of holed rock caves to dart in and out of. Malawi cichlids are aggressive and territorial by nature, especially towards non-species fish, and often eachother. A species-only tank, with a catfish or pleco as tankmate, is the most common combo to keep in home aquaria. Avoid plants, as they will not thrive in ideal conditons for peacocks, and will often be moved around and damaged as they establish territory.
The average size of a full-grown male aulonocara peacock cichlid is roughly 6 inches (15cm) with females typically maxing out at 4 inches (10cm).
Are Peacock Cichlids aggressive?
All African Malawi Cichlids are territorial by nature, and can be aggressive, particularly towards non-species fish. They can be kept with other types of Malawi cichlids, such as Mbuna and Haplochromis, with Peacocks generally considered somewhat less aggressive. Inter-species aggression is not unheard of, so a species-only tank is recommended.
Features
Approx. supplied size: 3-4" / 7-10cm
Maximum size: 6" / 15cm
Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa
Family: Cichlidae
Temperament: aggressive
Lighting requirement: moderate
Ideal number kept together: 2+
Water Conditions
Our conditions: pH 7.5, temp 25 °C
Ideal pH: 7.5-8.5
Hardness: 10-15KH
Water flow: moderate or fast
Temperature: 22–28 °C
Ease of Care
Easy to moderate. Keep in a species-only setup with other varieties of aulonocara. Armoured catfish make good tankmates, as will non-aggressive Haplochromis, but very little else. Quite prolific breeders, will thrive in moderate to fast flowing water.
Feeding
Peacock cichlids are omnivores meaning they eat both meat and plant matter. A good quality cichlid pellet, supplemented with algae-based treats or frozen cichlid food is recommended.
Breeding
Quite easy to breed, keep 1 or 2 males with a clutch of females for a supply of regular fry. Since these fish are mouth brooders, the female will collect the fertilized eggs in her mouth and go to the cave to incubate them. Don’t panic - she’s not eating the eggs!
Life Span
They can live 5-8 years in perfect conditions.
Photo is for illustration only - one supplied.
For more information on general fishkeeping and our shipping procedures click here.
