Red peacock ( Aulonocara baenschi )

Vivid, majestic, and breathtakingly colourful — the Red Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara baenschi) is one of the most stunning and popular African cichlids in the hobby. Native to Lake Malawi, the Red Peacock displays a vivid red to orange-red body colouration that makes it one of the most eye-catching cichlids available — a true jewel of the African rift lake aquarium.

Overview

Appearance

The Red Peacock displays a vivid red to orange-red body colouration across the entire body, with iridescent blue highlights on the face and fins in males. The intensity of the red colouration is most vivid in dominant males in breeding condition. Females are more subdued in colouration. The overall effect is a fish of extraordinary warmth and visual impact.

Water Parameters & Tank Setup

• Temperature: 76 – 82°F (24 – 28°C)
• pH: 7.8 – 8.5 (alkaline water essential)
• General Hardness (GH): 10 – 20 dGH
• Tank Size: Minimum 55 gallons
• Substrate: Sand; rocks and caves for territory and hiding
• 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
• Tip: Colour-enhancing foods rich in carotenoids help maintain the vivid red colouration
• Note: Avoid high-protein meaty foods — Peacock cichlids are 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 of similar temperament. Avoid aggressive Mbuna species. Keep one male per species to prevent hybridization and aggression. A ratio of one male to multiple females is recommended.

Breeding

Maternal mouthbrooders. Females incubate eggs in their mouths for 3–4 weeks. Fry are released as fully formed juveniles.

The Red Peacock Cichlid is a vivid and majestic fish that brings fiery red colour and regal presence to any Lake Malawi aquarium. A must-have for African cichlid enthusiasts.