Orange Blotched Cichlid – 5cm

It is speculated that the Orange Blotched Peacock Cichlid originated from a cross between an Aulonocara nyassaeand a species of female mbuna also known as the Orange Blossom Peacock Cichlid. This cross was initiated in captivity, and the beautiful hybrid OB Peacock was the result.

Behaviour

Although peacocks are territorial, they are not as aggressive than other cichlids.  They are very active and spend a lot of their time near the bottom of the tank sifting through the sand looking for food.

Tank Conditions

Peacock cichlid inhabit the sandy areas of Lake Malawi, therefore they are not demanding many special needs within an aquarium. Coral Sand with some rockery is best to emulate their natural habitat.

Compatibility

Other African cichlids (of similar size)
Clown Loaches, Featherfin Catfish, Cuckoo Catfish, Bristlenose Catfish, Plecos, Ghost Knives
They can also sometimes live with barbs, American cichlids, Larger Gourami’s, Eels, Silver & Golden Perch, larger sharks, silver dollar and yabbies.

Feeding

Peacocks are omnivores – in the wild they feed on small crustaceans, algae and cichlid fry. In the aquarium provide them a high quality cichlid pellet or flake. Most of their natural diet is meat based so ensure you also feed peacocks some frozen brine shrimp or frozen bloodworms periodically.

Care

Peacock cichlid care is something that beginning or experienced aquarists should have no trouble with. In general, these fish are fairly low-maintenance and relatively docile. However they can be quite sensitive to changes in the aquarium because their natural environment is in water that is consistent year round.

It is very important that you keep the water as clean as possible. Peacock cichlids are used to very clear waters in their natural habitat and their health will suffer if you don’t maintain their water quality.  In order to keep the water consistent with their natural environment, we recommend that you routinely use a water test kit.