Mbenji Island Peacock
Aulonocara stuartgranti 'Mbenji Island'
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.
Recommended parameters
| Parameter | Recommended range |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 24–28 |
| pH | 7.5–8.5 |
| GH | 10–20 |
| KH | 8–12 |
| NO₃ | ≤ 20 |
| PO₄ | ≤ 0.5 |
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.