Mbenji Island Peacock
Aulonocara stuartgranti 'Mbenji Island'
Family : Cichlidae
A colorful peacock cichlid endemic to Mbenji Island in Lake Malawi. Males display bright blue and yellow hues.
Description
This peacock has an elongated, laterally compressed body typical of Aulonocara. Adult males display a metallic blue head, golden yellow back, and bluish anal fin. Females are gray-brown with silvery reflections. It is relatively peaceful compared to mbunas, but males can be territorial during breeding. It spends time sifting through sand in search of food. It is a maternal mouthbrooder.
Habitat
Region :
Intermediate zones between rocks and sandy areas, often near islands.
Distribution :
Recommended parameters
Care
Care notes
Maintain temperature 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20. A minimum 200L tank is recommended for a group. Provide fine sand substrate and rocky hiding places. Diet should be carnivorous: high-quality pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Avoid nitrate buildup (max 20 mg/L). Males are polygamous; a harem of 1 male to 3-4 females is ideal. Avoid overly aggressive or very small tankmates. Regular water changes are essential.
Similar species
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