Benga Peacock
Aulonocara baenschi
Water Parameters
About
One of the most beautiful and peaceful peacocks from Lake Malawi. Males have a vibrant yellow body with metallic blue head and fins.
Behavior & Temperament
Relatively peaceful for an African cichlid. Males are territorial but not overly aggressive. Excellent for Malawi community tanks.
Feeding
Omnivore. Accepts flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia and mysis. In the wild, uses sensory pores on the head to detect prey in sandy substrate.
Breeding
Maternal mouthbrooder. Female carries 20–40 eggs for 21–28 days. Males develop intense yellow coloration with blue highlights on the face.
Care Notes
Sandy substrate for natural feeding behavior. Clean, well‑oxygenated water. Avoid stress from aggressive tankmates.
Compatibility
Excellent companion for other peacocks and peaceful haps. Avoid aggressive mbunas. Do not keep with species of similar yellow coloration to prevent hybridization.
Quick Summary
| Scientific Name | Aulonocara baenschi |
|---|---|
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Category | Fish |
| Care Level | Intermediate |
| Water Type | Freshwater |
| Max Size | 13.0 cm (5.1") |
| Min Tank | 250 L (66 gal) |
| Min Group | 1+ |
| Diet | Omnivore. Accepts flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, daphnia and mysis. In the wild, uses sensory pores on the head to detect prey in sandy substrate. |
| Temperament | Relatively peaceful for an African cichlid. Males are territorial but not overly aggressive. Excellent for Malawi community tanks. |
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