Scientific name: Aulonocara rubescens Common name: Ruby red peacock Family: Cichlidae Usual size in fish tanks: 10 - 12 cm (3.94 - 4.72 inch) 0 14 Recommended pH range for the species: 7.5 - 8.5 Recommended water hardness (dGH): 16 - 24°N (285.71 - 428.57ppm) 0°C 32°F 30°C 86°F Recommended temperature: 24 - 26 °C (75.2 - 78.8°F) The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning Where the species comes from: Africa Temperament to its own species: peaceful Temperament toward other fish species: aggressive to smaller Usual place in the tank: Middle levels Food and feeding Use quality flakes or cichlid pellets for the staple diet. Treats of blood worms, brine shrimp, krill and mysis will be readily accepted. Origin Africa; Ruby red peacock is found in Lake Malawi. Sexing The male will display a lot more colouration than the female; he will have orange and red throughout his body whereas the female will be a drab grey or brown. Always keep one male with several females but do not mix with other species of Aulonocara to prevent hybridisation. Breeding Ruby red peacock are mouth brooders, after spawning the female will collect the eggs for incubation, the male will take no further part in raising the young. The fry should be released after 3 weeks and they can be fed on newly hatched brine shrimp or crushed flake. Lifespan The expected life span for Ruby red peacock is 5-8 years. Short description Always add plenty of rock work to the tank to create hiding places. Open swimming areas must be left at the front, especially along the substrate and mid regions. Food Carnivore - Use meat based food, however vitamins and minerals are required always. Picture Special thanks to Marwin Lawrence for his picture.
