Aulonocara maylandi

Aulonocara maylandi, the Sulphurhead Peacock or Sulphur-head Aulonocara, is one of the more distinctive members of its genus due to the vivid sulphur-yellow patch on the nape and crown of adult males. The remainder of the body is a deep electric blue, creating a striking two-tone appearance that is immediately distinguishable from all other Aulonocara species.

Endemic to Eccles Reef in Lake Malawi, A. maylandi has a very restricted range and is considered one of the more vulnerable Malawi cichlids to habitat degradation. It has been bred in captivity for many years, ensuring its continuation in the hobby. Like all Aulonocara, it hunts invertebrates by hovering above sandy substrates and sensing prey movement.

In the aquarium, the Sulphurhead Aulonocara is a moderate-sized peacock cichlid well suited to mixed hap and peacock communities. Its bold yellow-and-blue colouration makes it one of the most distinctive peacocks available. Standard Aulonocara care with a harem group and quality meaty nutrition is all that is required to maintain this fish in spectacular condition.

Water: 24-28°C, pH 7.8-8.5, hard alkaline; clean, well-filtered water; weekly 25% changes. Tank: 200L minimum; sandy substrate for natural foraging; rocky structures for territory and refugia. Feeding: Carnivore-focused — frozen mysis, artemia, and quality peacock pellets with astaxanthin. Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder; clutch of 12-20 eggs; harem setup with 1 male to 2-3 females. Compatibility: Semi-aggressive; ideal for hap-and-peacock community; avoid aggressive mbuna.