Nkhata Bay Peacock

Aulonocara stuartgranti 'Nkhata Bay'

Family : Cichlidae

FishFreshwaterPeacocks

Geographic variant of Stuart Grant's peacock, with males displaying a characteristic blue and orange coloration. Endemic to Nkhata Bay.

Popularity
Biotope specialist
requires biotope recreation
Availability
Specialty only
Shop availability
IUCN Status
LC
Least Concern
Biotope
Lake Malawi
Lac africain, eau dure alcaline, cichlidés endémiques.

Description

This peacock is distinguished by its coloration: bright blue head and back, orange to reddish flanks, bluish dorsal and anal fins. Females are gray with silvery reflections. It reaches up to 14 cm. Its behavior is similar to other Aulonocara: it sifts sand and is a mouthbrooder. Males are territorial but less aggressive than mbunas. It prefers clear, well-oxygenated water.

Habitat

Region :

Rocky and sandy areas near Nkhata Bay, often at depths of 5 to 15 meters.

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature2428 °C
pH7.58.5
GH1020 °dGH
KH812 °dKH
NO₃
≤ 20 mg/L
PO₄
≤ 0.5 mg/L

Care

Difficulty
3/5
Diet
Carnivore
Min. tank
200 L
Min. group
4
Adult size
14 cm
Lifespan
6 years
Temperament
Semi-aggressive
Propagation

Care notes

Parameters identical to other peacocks: 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, GH 10-20. A minimum 200L tank is advised. Substrate should be sandy to allow sifting. Carnivorous diet: pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms. Keep a harem of 1 male to 3-4 females. Avoid overly active or aggressive fish. Nitrates should not exceed 20 mg/L. Strong filtration is recommended.

Similar species

Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance

References