Benga Peacock

Aulonocara baenschi, commonly known as the Benga or Nkhomo Peacock, is one of the smaller peacock cichlids reaching around 11cm. Males are strikingly coloured in yellow and blue, and the species is among the more moderately aggressive of the Aulonocara, making it suitable for mixed haplochromine setups. It remains popular in the hobby due to its compact size and vivid colouration.

Water: 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, hard and alkaline. Tank: 200L minimum with sand substrate and rocky territory boundaries. Feeding: Quality cichlid pellets and frozen mysis or artemia. Behaviour: Moderate aggression; males chase females heavily when breeding. Compatibility: Pairs well with other Aulonocara and medium-sized Malawi haps.