Red Shoulder (Aulonocara Stuartgrandi Hansbaenschi)

Max Size:  6"-7"

Description:

The Red Shoulder Peacock is a striking cichlid fish native to the rocky shores of Lake Malawi, Africa. Males exhibit a deep blue body and face with a bright red shoulder running into their pelvic fins, hence the name. Females are less colorful, but they still have a beautiful silver-gray hue. Red Shoulder Peacocks are known for their lively behavior and hardy nature, making them a popular choice for aquarists of all skill levels.

Aquarium Size and Conditions:

• Tank Size: A minimum of 50 gallons is recommended, with larger tanks being more suitable.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: Between 75-82°F (24-28°C).
  • pH: 7.8-8.6.
  • Hardness: 10-20 dH.
  • Ammonia and Nitrite: 0 ppm.
  • Nitrate: Less than 20 ppm.
• Water Changes: Regular water changes of 20-30% should be performed weekly.

Feeding Recommendations:

Red Shoulder Peacocks are omnivores. Their diet should comprise high-quality flake food, pellets, and a mix of frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and mysis shrimp. It's advisable to feed them multiple small meals throughout the day.

Additional Notes:

• Behavior: While Red Shoulder Peacocks are generally peaceful, they can exhibit territorial behavior, especially towards their own kind. It's recommended to house them in a species-specific tank or with other Malawi cichlids. Providing ample hiding spots in the form of caves is essential.
• Aquarium Setup: A well-filtered aquarium is crucial to maintain water quality. Regular water testing is advised to ensure parameters remain within the recommended range. Offering a varied diet ensures the fish receive all necessary nutrients. Observing the fish for any signs of illness or stress is essential for their well-being.

Compatibility:

Red Shoulder Peacocks can be kept with other Malawi cichlids of similar size and temperament. However, it is important to avoid keeping them with Mbuna cichlids, as these fish are more aggressive. Other good tank mates for Red Shoulder Peacocks include Synodontis catfish and other non-cichlid fish from Lake Malawi.

Breeding:

Red Shoulder Peacocks are relatively easy to breed in captivity. Males will establish territories and court females by displaying their brightly colored fins. Once a female is receptive, the pair will spawn together. The female will lay her eggs on a flat surface, such as a rock or cave wall, and the male will fertilize them. The female will then guard the eggs until they hatch.