OB Marble Peacock Cichlid
Aulonocara sp. (OB variant)
 
The OB Marble Peacock Cichlid is a colorful and eye-catching hybrid variety of peacock cichlid, known for its bold blotched (OB = "orange blotch") coloration. Each fish displays a unique mix of orange, red, blue, yellow, and black marbling, making them one of the most striking cichlids in the hobby.
 
Originally derived from Aulonocara species native to Lake Malawi in Africa, OB Peacocks are the result of selective breeding and are not found in the wild. They offer the beauty of peacocks combined with a more unpredictable, patterned appearance. OB Peacocks are active, semi-aggressive, and well-suited for colorful Malawi cichlid community tanks.
 
Species Overview
Common Name: OB Marble Peacock Cichlid
Scientific Name: Aulonocara sp. (hybrid)
Origin: Lake Malawi (hybrid, not wild-type)
Maximum Size: 12–15 cm (5–6 inches)
Lifespan: 6 to 8 years
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Swimming Level: Mid to bottom
Compatibility: Best with other Malawi cichlids of similar size and temperament
 
Aquarium Requirements
Minimum Tank Size: 200 litres
Substrate: Sand or fine gravel
Décor: Rocks, caves, stacked stone; open swimming space is important
Plants: Not recommended — may dig or damage roots
Lighting: Moderate to bright (enhances colors)
Filtration: Strong biological filtration recommended
Tank Cover: Recommended — active swimmers can jump when startled
 
Water Parameters
Temperature: 24–28°C
pH: 7.6–8.6
Hardness: Hard water preferred (10–20 dGH)
Water Movement: Moderate to strong circulation
 
Diet
Diet Type: Omnivorous
Preferred Foods: High-quality cichlid pellets, spirulina flakes, vegetables (zucchini, spinach), frozen foods (brine shrimp, mysis shrimp)
Feeding Frequency: Feed 1–2 times per day
Feeding Tips: Avoid high-protein meaty foods like bloodworms to prevent Malawi bloat
 
Breeding
Mouthbrooders — females incubate fertilized eggs in their mouths for about 3 weeks
Males display vibrant color and defend a territory during spawning
Requires a harem setup (1 male to 2–4 females) for best results
Fry can be raised on crushed flakes or powdered fry food
 
Care Summary
Care Level: Beginner to intermediate
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Adult Size: 12–15 cm
Tank Size: Minimum 200 litres
Water Temperature: 24–28°C
pH Range: 7.6–8.6
 
Diet: Omnivore – cichlid pellets, spirulina, veggie-based foods
Breeding: Maternal mouthbrooder
Tankmates: Other Malawi cichlids like haps, peacocks, or mbuna (non-aggressive types)