Aulonocara Sp. 'Walteri'

Datasheet

General Description

The Aulonocara Sp. 'Walteri', commonly known as the Blue-Faced Peacock, is a species of cichlid belonging to the family Cichlidae. This fish, with a maximum size of 13.0cm, is a relatively peaceful species, although males can exhibit aggression towards fish with similar color patterns. It is often maintained with a ratio of a single male to 4-6 females in aquaria due to male aggressiveness unless in the largest tanks.

Aquarium Setup

When setting up an aquarium for the Blue-Faced Peacock, it is recommended to arrange rockwork piles around the tank with open spaces in between. Fine sand as substrate is preferred for natural feeding behavior. Coarser substrates like gravel should be avoided to prevent damage to the fish. Live plants such as Vallisneria, Anubias, or Sagittaria species can be added as the species is not harmful to plants. Maintaining stable water quality is crucial, and over-filtering the tank along with weekly water changes of 30-50% is necessary.

Behaviour

The Blue-Faced Peacock is known for its peaceful nature but can display aggression, especially among males with similar color patterns. It is best kept with compatible tankmates like Copadichromis, Placidochromis, Otopharynx lithobates, and Labidochromis caeruleus. This species also exhibits territorial behavior, especially during breeding, with males establishing territories.

Feeding and Diet

In the wild, the Blue-Faced Peacock is benthophagous, feeding on substrate by sifting edible items. In aquariums, their diet should consist of high-quality prepared foods, live or frozen larvae like chironomids, Tubifex, and Artemia. They should also be given dried foods with a high vegetable content, such as Spirulina. Offering multiple small feedings throughout the day mimics their natural browsing behavior and promotes optimal growth rate.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

The Blue-Faced Peacock is a maternal mouthbrooder that can spawn in a community set-up. A single male to multiple females ratio is recommended to reduce aggression towards individual females. The male initiates courtship displays near potential spawning sites. The female lays eggs, which are then fertilized by the male through the release of milt. The female carries the brood for up to 4 weeks before releasing free-swimming fry. Males are larger and more colorful than females.

Habitat and Distribution

This species is native to Chizumulu Island and Likoma Island in Lake Malawi. It inhabits intermediate zones with rocky shores transitioning into sandy bottoms. The Blue-Faced Peacock prefers natural caves and rocky areas for shelter and breeding. In the wild, dominant males tend to occupy higher territories with darker color patterns.