Dragon Blood Peacock Cichlid
The Dragon Blood Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara sp.) is a stunning freshwater hybrid known for its intense red, pink, and orange hues. This hybrid from Lake Malawi is highly sought after for its vibrant colours and manageable temperament. Its dazzling appearance and active nature make it a popular choice among aquarists who love African cichlids.
Size and Lifespan
Dragon Blood Peacock Cichlids grow to an average size of 12–15 cm, with males displaying brighter colours than females. With proper care, they can live for 6–8 years, bringing long-lasting beauty and excitement to your aquarium.
Tank Size and Requirements
A minimum tank size of 200 liters is recommended for these active fish. They thrive in water temperatures of 24°C–28°C and a pH range of 7.8–8.6. Decorate their tank with sandy substrates, rocky caves, and plenty of open swimming areas to replicate their natural Lake Malawi habitat. Providing hiding spots and territories helps reduce stress and encourages natural behaviours.
Tank Mates
Dragon Blood Peacocks are relatively peaceful compared to other cichlids. They do well with other Peacock Cichlids, Haps, and non-aggressive African cichlid species. Avoid overly aggressive or significantly smaller fish to prevent conflict or stress. Maintaining a proper male-to-female ratio in the tank can help minimize territorial disputes.
Feeding Dragon Blood Peacock Cichlids
These omnivorous cichlids require a varied diet for optimal health and colour. High-quality cichlid pellets or flakes should be their staple food. Supplement their diet with live or frozen protein such as brine shrimp, krill, or daphnia, along with blanched vegetables for added nutrition. Feeding AquaMunch Super Colour products intensifies their vibrant hues, ensuring all fish in the tank display their full colour potential.
Breeding Dragon Blood Peacock Cichlids
Breeding Dragon Blood Peacocks is straightforward in the right conditions. Males court females with their vivid displays and establish territories for spawning. Females are maternal mouthbrooders, carrying fertilized eggs for 18–25 days before releasing fry. Provide flat rocks or sandy areas for spawning and a separate breeding tank to protect the fry from predation.
FAQs
How big do Dragon Blood Peacock Cichlids get? They grow to 12–15 cm, with males being slightly larger than females.
Are they aggressive? They are relatively peaceful but may show mild territorial behaviour, especially during breeding.
What tank mates are suitable? Other Peacocks, Haps, and non-aggressive African cichlid species are ideal companions.
What do they eat? They thrive on cichlid pellets, live or frozen protein, and vegetables. AquaMunch Super Colour products enhance their vibrant colours.
How do you breed Dragon Blood Peacock Cichlids? Provide sandy areas or flat rocks for spawning. Females mouthbrood eggs for 18–25 days before releasing fry.
How can you tell males and females apart? Males are larger with vivid red, pink, and orange hues, while females are smaller with more subdued colours.
Species Overview
Species: Aulonocara sp.
Common Name: Dragon Blood Peacock Cichlid
Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa (Hybrid)
Diet: Omnivore
PH Range: 7.8–8.6
Temperature: 24°C–28°C
Max Size: Up to 15 cm
Tank Size: Minimum 200 liters