Blue Peacock Cichlid

Scientific Name: Aulonocara nyassae

The Blue Peacock Cichlid is a colorful African cichlid from Lake Malawi prized for the brilliant blue coloration that develops as the fish matures. Mature males typically develop the strongest metallic blue coloration, while females and juveniles are generally much more subdued.

Like other Peacock Cichlids, Blue Peacocks are generally less aggressive than many Mbuna, although males can still become territorial, particularly around other males or during breeding. They are best kept in a spacious Lake Malawi aquarium with compatible Peacocks and other appropriately selected African cichlids.

Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive / Territorial
Purchase Size: Approximately 2 inches
Adult Size: Approximately 5–6 inches
Minimum Tank Size: 55 gallons recommended
Temperature: 75–82°F
pH: 7.5–8.8
Hardness: 10–25 dGH
Diet: Omnivore
Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa

These parameters line up well with established Aulonocara husbandry; closely related Peacock species are documented around 5 inches, 73–84°F, pH 7.5–9.0 and 10–25 dGH.

Recommended Setup: Provide a fine sand substrate with rockwork and caves while leaving plenty of open swimming space. Strong filtration and stable, hard, alkaline water are important. Blue Peacocks are generally best housed with other Peacocks and compatible Haps rather than extremely aggressive Mbuna. Fine sand is particularly useful because Aulonocara naturally search the substrate for food.

Feed a high-quality African cichlid pellet as the staple diet along with appropriately sized frozen or prepared foods. Peacocks naturally search the substrate for small food items and should receive a varied diet rather than the heavily plant-based diet typically recommended for algae-grazing Mbuna.

Please Note: Blue Peacock Cichlids can vary in size, coloration, markings, and sex. Juveniles and females may appear gray or muted compared with mature males, and coloration can continue developing with age. Unless specifically stated otherwise, sex and exact coloration are not guaranteed.

All livestock from Felipe’s Fish is carefully selected and prepared for safe transport. Please review our shipping and Live Arrival Guarantee policies before ordering.