Aulonocara stuartgranti 'Ngara Flametail'

The Ngara Flametail (Aulonocara stuartgranti from Ngara on the Tanzanian coast of Lake Malawi) is widely considered one of the most spectacular peacock cichlids available to the hobbyist. Males develop a deep, intense cobalt-blue body colouration combined with dramatically blazing orange-red dorsal, anal, and caudal fins — creating a combination that appears almost luminous under aquarium lighting. The contrast between the cool blue body and the hot orange fins creates a visual effect unmatched by most other freshwater fish. The sandy substrate hunting behaviour of Aulonocara species (hovering, detecting vibrations, then diving to sift the sand) is particularly prominent in this species given its open sandy habitat at Ngara. Deservedly one of the most sought-after peacock cichlids in the Belgian and Dutch hobby.

Provide a Malawi aquarium of at least 200 litres with open sandy substrate and moderate rockwork. Keep one male with two or more females. Maintain hard, alkaline water (pH 7.6–8.5). Feed small cichlid pellets and frozen invertebrates. Perform weekly 20–25% water changes. Male colour is most vivid in clean water with compatible tankmates.