(110) Flavescent Peacock 3in

The Flavescent Peacock (Aulonocara stuartgranti) is a semi-aggressive African cichlid from Lake Malawi. Males are known for their golden-yellow body and shimmering blue accents on the face and fins. They are a popular choice for African cichlid aquariums due to their colors and relatively peaceful disposition compared to other Lake Malawi cichlids

• Tank size: A minimum of a 55-gallon tank is recommended for a small group, with 75 gallons or more being ideal. Ample space helps to disperse territorial behavior and reduce aggression.
• Substrate: Use a fine, sandy substrate to mimic their natural lakebed habitat. Peacocks sift through the sand for food, and coarse gravel can cause injury to their gills.
• Filtration: Robust, high-capacity filtration is necessary to manage their bioload and maintain the clean, clear water they are accustomed to.
• Water parameters:
  • Temperature: Maintain a stable temperature between 76 and 82°F (24–28°C).
  • pH: A high pH of 7.8–8.6 is necessary to replicate their natural Lake Malawi environment.
  • Water quality: Perform bi-weekly partial water changes to keep nitrate levels below 30 ppm.
• Decorations: Aquascape with plenty of stacked rocks, caves, and crevices to create territories and hiding places. Be sure to leave plenty of open swimming space in the center. 

• Omnivorous diet: Flavescent Peacocks are omnivores that feed on small invertebrates and insect larvae found in the substrate.
• Food types: A varied diet is essential for optimal color and health.
  • Staple: High-quality cichlid pellets and flakes.
  • Supplements: Include frozen foods like brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and bloodworms.
• Feeding schedule: Feed small portions once or twice daily, ensuring all food is consumed within a few minutes. 

• Semi-aggressive: While less aggressive than mbuna cichlids, males can be territorial, especially toward other male peacocks during breeding.
• Social dynamics: Maintain a male-to-female ratio of at least 1:3 to disperse aggression among males.
• Compatible companions: Other similarly sized and tempered Peacock cichlids (Aulonocara species) and Haps (Haplochromine cichlids). Peaceful bottom-dwellers like large, non-aggressive plecos can also be suitable.
• Incompatible companions: Avoid smaller, delicate fish and overly aggressive cichlids like many species of mbuna. 

• Maternal mouthbrooders: The female carries the fertilized eggs and fry in her mouth for protection, usually for about three weeks.
• Spawning behavior: Males will display their colors and defend a small territory, usually a cave, to attract females