Description

Tangerine Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara sp.)

Care Guide

The Tangerine Peacock is a selectively bred or hybrid variation of the popular Aulonocara genus of African cichlids from Lake Malawi. While not a naturally occurring species, it has been developed specifically for its vivid, intense orange to reddish-orange colour that lights up the aquarium. These fish are generally known for being more peaceful than the highly aggressive Mbuna cichlids, making them an excellent choice for a dedicated Haplochromine or Peacock community tank.

Key Characteristics and Identification

• Scientific Name: Aulonocara species (Often a hybrid or captive strain, commonly referred to as Aulonocara sp. “Tangerine”).
• Maximum Size: Males typically reach $12-15\text{ cm}$ ($5-6$ inches). Females are usually smaller.
• Appearance: Males are brilliant orange across their entire body and fins. They often display faint vertical barring. Females are typically a drab, camouflaged grey-brown or silver-pink.
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive, primarily towards other males of similar colour or species, but generally peaceful toward non-cichlid tank mates and dissimilar cichlids.

Aquarium Requirements and Setup

To ensure vibrant colour and manage territorial aggression, ample space and strategic decor are necessary.

Tank Size and Environment

• Minimum Tank Size: A tank of at least $250$ litres ($60$ UK gallons) is required for a small colony. Larger tanks (over $350$ litres) are highly recommended to disperse male aggression and allow for a mixed community.
• Filtration: Peacocks require clean, highly oxygenated water. A powerful external filter is essential to handle their bioload and maintain water quality.
• Decor: The aquascape should mimic the rocky, sandy habitats of Lake Malawi. Provide ample rockwork stacked to create numerous caves, crevices, and bolt holes. It is crucial to leave a large area of open sand at the front and bottom of the tank, as Aulonocara species are natural sand-sifters that use this area for feeding and display.

Water Parameters

Like all Rift Lake cichlids, the Tangerine Peacock requires hard, alkaline water, which is fundamental to their long-term health.

Diet and Feeding

Aulonocara are primarily insectivores/carnivores in the wild, using specialised sensory pores on their faces to detect invertebrates buried in the sand.

• Staple Diet: Feed a high-quality, sinking pellet or flake specifically designed for African cichlids.
• Protein Supplements: Supplement with frozen foods such as krill, brine shrimp, and mysis shrimp.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed small amounts two to three times per day.

Temperament and Compatibility

The Tangerine Peacock’s relatively docile nature (for a cichlid) makes them excellent centrepieces for a specific type of community.

• Social Structure: Always keep in a harem setup: one male to three or more females. This diffuses the male’s territorial displays and breeding aggression, reducing stress on the females.
• Tank Mates:
  • Suitable: Other similarly sized and tempered Peacock cichlids (Aulonocara), mild-mannered Haplochromines (Haps), and non-aggressive, large rock-dwelling cichlids.
  • Caution: Avoid housing them with overly aggressive Mbuna (e.g., Maylandia species) as the slower-moving Peacocks will be easily outcompeted for food and territory.
  • Note on Colour: Be cautious about introducing other bright orange or red Aulonocara males, as this will usually trigger intense territorial conflict.

Breeding

Tangerine Peacocks are maternal mouthbrooders. The male will display intensely to the female, and she will hold the fertilised eggs in her mouth for approximately three weeks. During this time, the female will not eat and requires a quiet, safe hiding space, such as a cave.

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