Aulonocara OB peacock

Scientific Classification

• Scientific Name: Aulonocara sp. OB
• Common Names: OB Peacock Cichlid, Orange Blotch Peacock, OB Aulonocara
• Family: Cichlidae
• Origin: Lake Malawi (though the OB variety is the result of captive hybridization)

Physical Description

• Color: OB Peacocks are known for their random blotched patterns. The colors can vary widely, but typical combinations include blue, orange, yellow, and black patches across the body and fins. Males display more vibrant colors, while females often have more muted or subdued patterns.
• Size: Adults typically reach 4-6 inches (10-15 cm), with males generally being larger than females.
• Body Shape: They share the same elongated body shape as other Aulonocara species, with prominent fins and a slightly rounded head.
• Fins: The dorsal and caudal fins often feature vibrant colors and patterns, with elongated tips in mature males.

Behavior

• Temperament: OB Peacock Cichlids are semi-aggressive. Males can be territorial, especially during breeding, but overall, they are more peaceful compared to other Malawi cichlids. They can cohabit well with similarly tempered species but may show aggression toward other males of the same species or other colorful fish.
• Social Structure: They do well in groups, especially in a ratio of one male to several females. This helps reduce aggression and allows males to display their vibrant colors without excessive competition.
• Swimming Style: Active and inquisitive swimmers, OB Peacocks prefer the middle and bottom regions of the aquarium, where they will explore and sift through the substrate for food.

Habitat

• Natural Habitat: While OB Peacocks are not found in the wild (as they are a hybridized variant), their parent species Aulonocara are native to the rocky and sandy areas of Lake Malawi.
• Aquarium Setup: Provide a spacious tank with a sandy substrate and plenty of hiding spaces using rocks and caves. Ensure there is ample open swimming space, as these fish are active and enjoy exploring their environment.

Diet

• Feeding: OB Peacocks are carnivorous and primarily feed on small invertebrates in the wild. In captivity, they should be fed a varied diet of high-quality cichlid pellets, frozen or live foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia. A protein-rich diet helps maintain their vibrant coloration.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed them 1-2 times a day, offering small portions they can consume in a few minutes to avoid overfeeding.

Breeding

• Breeding Type: Like other Aulonocara species, OB Peacocks are mouthbrooders. After mating, the female picks up the fertilized eggs in her mouth and incubates them for about 2-3 weeks until the fry are ready to be released.
• Nesting: Males create a territory and court females by displaying their vibrant colors. Once fertilized, the female will hide while brooding the eggs in her mouth.
• Fry Care: Once the fry are released, they can be fed baby brine shrimp or finely crushed cichlid flakes.

Care Requirements

• Tank Size: A minimum of 55 gallons is recommended for a group of OB Peacocks, with larger tanks needed if housing multiple males or mixed species.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C)
  • pH Level: 7.8 to 8.6 (alkaline)
  • Hardness: 10 to 20 dGH
• Filtration: These fish require clean, well-filtered water with regular water changes to maintain optimal health.

Compatibility

• Tank Mates: OB Peacocks can be kept with other peaceful to moderately aggressive Malawi cichlids, such as other Aulonocara species, Labidochromis caeruleus (Yellow Labs), and Protomelas. Avoid keeping them with very aggressive or overly territorial species, as this may lead to stress and fighting.

Lifespan

• Lifespan: With proper care, OB Peacocks can live for 6 to 10 years in captivity.

Interesting Facts

• The "OB" in OB Peacock stands for "Orange Blotch," referring to the fish's distinctive blotched pattern.
• OB Peacocks are a hybrid, likely created by crossing Aulonocara species with Mbuna cichlids to produce the mottled coloration. This has led to some variation in temperament and size, but they remain relatively peaceful.
• Despite their hybrid origins, they still display much of the same behavior as pure Aulonocara species, including their peaceful nature compared to more aggressive cichlids.