Endemic to Lake Malawi, Peacock Cichlids are highly sought after for the breathtaking colors of the males. They are benthivorous, using sensory pores on their jaws to hunt small invertebrates in the sand. While territorial, they are generally peaceful compared to their aggressive Mbuna cousins. They require hard, alkaline water and a sandy substrate to prevent gill damage while sifting.
At a Glance
Tank Requirements
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Water Parameters
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Temperament & Compatibility
Available Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Male (Show Color)
Fully colored males exhibiting intense blues, yellows, or reds. Often kept in carefully managed 'all-male' Hap/Peacock tanks to prevent cross-breeding and female-induced aggression. Will fight males of similar species or colorations.
Differs in 2 traits from base species
Also known as: Show Male, Colored Peacock, Standard
Female
Females are significantly less colorful, typically displaying a silvery-brown or grey base with faint vertical barring. They are smaller and less aggressive. Should be kept in a ratio of at least 3-4 females per 1 male if breeding to disperse his harassment.
Differs in 2 traits from base species
Also known as: Drab Peacock, Breeder Female, Uncolored
Unsexed Juvenile
Young Peacocks that have not yet matured or 'colored up'. At this stage, all fish look like females. They are less aggressive but will eventually need to be sexed and separated if male-on-male aggression becomes an issue as they mature.
Differs in 5 traits from base species
Also known as: Assorted Peacock, Baby Peacock, Grow-out
Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) Care Guide Summary
The Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara), scientifically known as Aulonocara sp., belongs to the Cichlids - African family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 15 cm and have a fusiform body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as semi-aggressive, this species primarily occupies the bottom and mid-level zones of the aquarium and produces a high level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 200 litres and a tank length of at least 120 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 24°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 7.8–8.6 and a general hardness of 10–25 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred. An aquarium test kit can help you monitor these values.
The Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) is a rewarding species to keep, provided its core environmental needs are met. This species is available in 3 varieties: Male (Show Color), Female, and Unsexed Juvenile. Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.
Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara), a moderate water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the bottom and mid-level zones, the aquarium layout should prioritise open swimming space in the centre of the tank for free movement and sufficient floor space with hiding spots among rocks, wood, or dense planting. Useful additions include a sand substrate to accommodate their sifting behaviour and smooth gravel or rounded substrate to protect their sensitive barbels. Keepers should note that expect substrate disturbance, so lightweight décor should be secured. Browse aquarium sand substrate options to find the best fit.
Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) Compatibility Notes
Classified as semi-aggressive, the Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) is adaptable and can be kept singly or in a small group, offering flexibility when planning a community tank. When choosing tankmates, conspecific aggression can be intense, especially in smaller tanks and territorial behaviour may cause issues if hiding spots or floor space are limited. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the bottom and mid-level zones can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Frequently Asked Questions About Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara)
How big does Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) get?+
What tank size does Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) need?+
What water parameters does Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) need?+
Is Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) peaceful or aggressive?+
Can Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) live alone?+
Does Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara) have any special tank requirements?+
Similar Species
Auratus Cichlid (Mbuna)
Melanochromis auratus
The Auratus Cichlid is a stunning but notoriously aggressive Mbuna from Lake Malawi. They exhibit extreme sexual dimorphism. They are strictly rock-dwellers that graze on algae (aufwuchs). Due to their hyper-aggressive nature, they must be kept in species-only or carefully managed, overstocked Mbuna setups with a strict harem ratio (1 male to several females) to disperse aggression.
Fairy Cichlid (Brichardi)
Neolamprologus brichardi
An elegant but fiercely territorial Lake Tanganyika cichlid. They are famous for their complex social structure, forming massive, multi-generational colonies where older siblings help defend and raise new fry. Due to their extreme territoriality when breeding, they are best kept in a species-only tank, as they will aggressively eliminate non-colony tank mates.
African Jewel Cichlid
Hemichromis bimaculatus
A strikingly beautiful but notoriously aggressive West African riverine cichlid. Unlike the alkaline-loving Rift Lake cichlids (e.g., Mbuna), Jewel Cichlids prefer neutral, softer water parameters. They are renowned for their brilliant red breeding dress and iridescent blue spots, but also for their extreme territoriality, especially when forming pairs and spawning. They are avid diggers and will uproot most plants.
Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus)
Tropheus duboisi
An iconic Lake Tanganyika cichlid famous for its dramatic life-stage color change. Juveniles are jet black with brilliant white polka-dots, while adults develop a blue head and a distinctive yellow or white vertical band across a dark body. They are highly aggressive toward their own kind and must be kept in large colonies (10+) to disperse aggression. They are strict herbivores that require a specialized diet to avoid fatal digestive issues.
Frontosa
Cyphotilapia frontosa
A majestic and iconic deep-water cichlid from Lake Tanganyika, famous for its striking black and white bands and the prominent nuchal hump on its head. Despite their massive size, they are gentle giants compared to other African cichlids. However, they are highly effective piscivores and will easily consume smaller fish. They are best kept in a 'harem' colony of one male to multiple females.
Yellow Lab (Mbuna)
Labidochromis caeruleus
The Electric Yellow Lab is one of the most popular and widely kept African Cichlids from Lake Malawi. Classified as an Mbuna (rock-dwelling cichlid), they are famous for their vibrant yellow coloration and striking black dorsal stripes. While considered one of the most 'peaceful' Mbuna, they are still highly territorial cichlids that require hard, alkaline water, a sandy substrate for digging, and abundant rockwork to establish territories.