Flavescent Peacock

Aulonocara stuartgranti is a medium-sized peacock cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi's rocky littoral zones. Males develop spectacular yellow and blue iridescent colouration as they mature, while females remain a subdued grey-brown. Like all Aulonocara, they hunt invertebrates by hovering just above sandy substrates and detecting vibrations.

Water: 24-28°C, pH 7.5-8.5, hard alkaline water with regular partial changes. Tank: 200L minimum; rocky décor with open sandy areas for foraging. Feeding: High-quality cichlid pellets, frozen mysis, brine shrimp; no beef heart. Behaviour: Males are territorial with conspecifics; keep one male with multiple females. Compatibility: Malawi community only; mix with other peaceful haps and mbuna of similar size.