Mdoka peacock cichlid

Rare, vivid, and strikingly beautiful — the Mdoka Peacock Cichlid is a premium locality form of the Peacock cichlid from the Mdoka region of Lake Malawi, prized for its exceptional colouration and the quality associated with wild-locality Malawi cichlids. A sought-after fish for serious African cichlid collectors and enthusiasts.

Overview

Appearance

The Mdoka Peacock displays the vivid, multi-coloured colouration characteristic of Aulonocara Peacock cichlids, with the specific colouration and pattern associated with the Mdoka locality. Males display vivid blue, yellow, and orange colouration with the distinctive white lips that are characteristic of the Mdoka form. The locality-specific colouration makes this a particularly prized and collectible Peacock cichlid variety.

Water Parameters & Tank Setup

• Temperature: 76 – 82°F (24 – 28°C)
• pH: 7.8 – 8.5
• General Hardness (GH): 10 – 20 dGH
• Tank Size: Minimum 55 gallons
• Substrate: Sand; rocks and caves for territory
• Decor: Rock formations with caves; open sandy areas for foraging

Diet & Feeding

• Staple: High-quality cichlid pellets and flake food
• Treats: Frozen brine shrimp, daphnia, and krill
• Note: Avoid high-protein meaty foods — prone to Malawi Bloat

Feed 2–3 times daily.

Compatibility & Tank Mates

Best kept in a Lake Malawi community with other Peacock and Haplochromine cichlids. Avoid aggressive Mbuna. Keep one male per species to maintain locality purity.

Breeding

Maternal mouthbrooders. Females incubate eggs in their mouths for 3–4 weeks.

The Mdoka Peacock Cichlid is a rare and beautiful locality form that brings premium Malawi colour and collector’s appeal to any African cichlid aquarium.