Orange Blotch Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara sp.) - Live Fish

DESCRIPTION OF ITEM:

The Orange Blotch Peacock Cichlid is a striking and highly sought-after variation of the Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara genus), known for its vibrant coloration and attractive patterns. Like other members of the peacock cichlid family, it is native to Lake Malawi in East Africa, and it is admired for its combination of beauty and relatively peaceful temperament, making it a popular choice in freshwater aquariums.

Physical Characteristics:

• Coloration:
  • The defining feature of the Orange Blotch Peacock is its vivid orange and yellowish body, with the characteristic "blotch" patterns across the body and fins, which can range from deep orange to reddish-orange. The blotches are irregular and typically darken toward the fish's tail.
  • Males, especially during breeding periods, are much more vibrant compared to females, with iridescent blue around their heads, especially the gills, making them stand out.
  • The fish’s dorsal fin is elongated, and the tail is typically forked, completing the peacock-like appearance.
• Size:
  • The Orange Blotch Peacock Cichlid usually grows to 6 to 7 inches (15 to 18 cm) in length, which is typical for most peacock cichlids.

Care and Habitat:

• Water Conditions:

  • These cichlids thrive in alkaline water with a pH between 7.5 and 8.5, which mirrors the conditions of Lake Malawi.
  • The ideal temperature range is between 76°F and 80°F (24°C to 27°C), making them well-suited for aquariums with similar water parameters.
  • They require hard water (high mineral content), and good filtration is necessary to maintain high water quality.

• Tank Setup:

  • A 55-gallon tank or larger is recommended for a single Orange Blotch Peacock. For multiple fish, a larger tank will help reduce territorial aggression.
  • The aquarium should include rocky structures, caves, and crevices, which provide hiding spots and territories, as they tend to be slightly territorial, particularly during breeding.
  • A sand substrate is ideal, as it closely mimics their natural habitat and provides a surface for foraging.

Diet:

• The Orange Blotch Peacock Cichlid is an omnivore, and a varied diet is essential for its health and vibrant coloration.
  • High-quality cichlid pellets and flakes should form the base of their diet.
  • They also enjoy live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia, and spirulina. Offering a variety of foods will help enhance their color and keep them healthy.

Behavior and Socialization:

• Temperament:

  • The Orange Blotch Peacock Cichlid is known for being relatively peaceful, especially compared to more aggressive cichlid species.
  • While they are somewhat territorial, they are not overly aggressive and can often be kept in a community tank with other peaceful cichlids that have similar water requirements.
  • Males may show aggression toward each other, particularly during breeding seasons, but the overall aggression is lower than in many other African cichlids.

• Socialization:

  • The Orange Blotch Peacock does well with other peaceful African cichlids, especially those from Lake Malawi, such as Mbuna or other Aulonocara species.
  • They can also coexist with non-aggressive species like catfish (e.g., Synodontis) and small peaceful community fish, as long as they are not too small to be considered prey.

Breeding:

• The Orange Blotch Peacock Cichlid is a mouthbrooder, like most peacock cichlids. The female will carry the fertilized eggs in her mouth until they hatch, providing protection for the young fry.
• Males court females with their vivid colors and displays. During the breeding season, males may show off their full range of colors to attract females, performing dances and posturing.
• After the fry hatch, they remain in the mother's mouth for protection until they are large enough to swim on their own.

The Orange Blotch Peacock Cichlid is a beautiful and relatively easy-to-care-for species, making it an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced aquarium hobbyists. With its striking coloration, peaceful demeanor, and the stunning breeding displays of the males, it makes an outstanding addition to a well-maintained aquarium. Proper care, including providing suitable water parameters and a balanced diet, will help this fish thrive and continue to display its vibrant hues.