Peacock Cichlid

Aulonocara nyassae

Peacock cichlids are colorful haplochromine cichlids from Lake Malawi, with Aulonocara nyassae representing the group often associated with sandy zones and rocky margins. Mature males show bright blues, yellows, oranges, or metallic tones depending on population and line, while females are usually more subdued. Aulonocara cichlids use sensitive pores along the head to detect small prey in sand, a feeding style that sets them apart from the more rock-scraping mbuna many aquarists know.

Aquarium care centers on stable, hard, alkaline water and a layout that leaves both sand and shelter. Male color and breeding behavior are strongest when stocking avoids constant fighting, so many keepers use one male with several females or carefully chosen all-male display tanks. Peacock cichlids are maternal mouthbrooders, and fry survival improves when females are not harassed. Breeders should label location forms and avoid casual hybridization, since many commercial fish are selected for color while wild-type identities can be lost.