Cape Maclear Peacock – Brilliant Colour from the Heart of Lake Malawi
Introduce a burst of natural beauty to your aquarium with the Cape Maclear Peacock, a stunning Aulonocara variant from the crystal-clear waters of Cape Maclear in Lake Malawi. Known for its radiant colouration and relatively peaceful nature, this peacock cichlid is a standout addition to any African cichlid setup.
Key Features:
Scientific Name: Aulonocara sp. (Cape Maclear variant)
Common Name: Cape Maclear Peacock
Origin: Cape Maclear, Lake Malawi, Africa
Adult Size: Up to 12–15 cm
Temperament: Generally peaceful (for a cichlid)
Tank Size: Minimum 150–200 litres
Water Conditions: pH 7.8–8.6 | Temp 24–28°C
Why It's a Favourite:
Dazzling Colours: Males showcase brilliant blues, yellows, and metallic tones – truly eye-catching under good lighting.
Peaceful Personality: Less aggressive than many Malawi cichlids; ideal for mixed peacock or haplochromis tanks.
Responsive & Intelligent: Known to interact with owners and show personality during feeding and swimming.
Care Level: Moderate
Provide fine substrate (they love to sift through sand), plenty of hiding spots, and open swimming areas. A high-quality cichlid pellet diet, enriched with occasional frozen foods, keeps them healthy and vibrant.