Aulonocara Red Peacock

Scientific Classification

• Scientific Name: Aulonocara sp. (often referred to as Aulonocara nyassae in the aquarium trade)
• Common Names: Red Peacock Cichlid, Aulonocara Red Peacock
• Family: Cichlidae
• Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa

Physical Description

• Coloration: Males typically have a bright red body with blue or teal highlights, particularly around the face, fins, and dorsal area. The intensity of the red coloration can vary depending on genetics and environmental factors.
• Size: Males generally reach 5-6 inches (12-15 cm) in length, while females are smaller, usually growing to about 3-4 inches (8-10 cm).
• Body Shape: The body is elongated and somewhat laterally compressed, typical of the Aulonocara genus, with a rounded head and prominent eyes.
• Fins: The dorsal and anal fins often have vibrant blue edges, adding to their stunning appearance.

Behavior

• Temperament: The Aulonocara Red Peacock is generally semi-aggressive. Males can be territorial, especially during breeding, but they are often less aggressive than many Mbuna cichlids.
• Social Structure: It is best to keep one male with multiple females (harem breeding) to reduce aggression among males. In larger tanks, multiple males can be kept if territories are established.
• Activity Level: They are active swimmers, often found in the middle and upper regions of the tank.

Habitat

• Natural Habitat: In Lake Malawi, they inhabit rocky substrates and sandy areas where they graze on algae and small invertebrates.
• Aquarium Setup: Provide a tank that mimics their natural habitat with a sandy substrate and plenty of rocky structures and caves for hiding and territory establishment. Ensure there is open swimming space.

Diet

• Feeding: Aulonocara Red Peacocks are omnivorous. In captivity, they thrive on a varied diet that includes high-quality cichlid pellets, flakes, and live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed them once or twice daily, offering only as much food as they can consume within a few minutes.

Breeding

• Breeding Type: Aulonocara Red Peacocks are mouthbrooders. The female lays eggs, which the male fertilizes, and the female collects the fertilized eggs in her mouth to incubate until they hatch, usually within 2-3 weeks.
• Nesting: Males create small territories to attract females. They often display to court females and will take on bright coloration during this period.
• Fry Care: Once the fry are released, they should be fed baby brine shrimp or finely crushed flakes.

Care Requirements

• Tank Size: A minimum of 55 gallons is recommended for keeping a group of Aulonocara Red Peacocks, especially with multiple females and a male.
• 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: Strong filtration is essential to maintain good water quality, as cichlids are sensitive to poor water conditions. Regular water changes are also necessary.

Compatibility

• Tank Mates: They can coexist with other peaceful to semi-aggressive African cichlids, such as other Aulonocara species, Copadichromis, and certain Haplochromis. Avoid mixing with overly aggressive species, such as Mbuna.
• Behavior with Others: Males can become territorial, especially during breeding, so adequate space and hiding spots are essential to reduce aggression.

Lifespan

• Lifespan: With proper care, Aulonocara Red Peacocks can live for 5 to 10 years in captivity.

Interesting Facts

• The vivid coloration of males is not only for display but also plays a crucial role in attracting females during mating.
• They are known for their relatively peaceful nature compared to other cichlid species, making them suitable for community tanks with similar temperament fish.
• The Aulonocara genus includes various other peacock cichlids, each with unique colorations and patterns.