🌟 Ethelwynnae Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara ethelwynnae) – Live Freshwater Fish
 
Introduce a vibrant splash of color to your aquarium with the Ethelwynnae Peacock Cichlid, also known as the Chitande Aulonocara. This captivating species, endemic to Lake Malawi, is renowned for its striking appearance and peaceful temperament, making it a prized addition for both novice and experienced aquarists.​
 
🐠 Key Features:
Scientific Name: Aulonocara ethelwynnae
Common Names: Ethelwynnae Peacock Cichlid, Chitande Aulonocara
Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa
Adult Size: Up to 11 cm (4.3 inches)
Lifespan: 5–8 years with proper care
Temperament: Peaceful; males may exhibit territorial behavior during breeding
Diet: Carnivorous; thrives on a varied diet of high-quality cichlid pellets, flakes, and occasional live or frozen foods like brine shrimp and bloodworms​.
 
🏡 Aquarium Requirements:
Minimum Tank Size: 120 liters (approximately 30 gallons)
Water Temperature: 23–26°C (73–79°F)
pH Level: 7.5–8.5
Water Hardness: 12–16 dGH
Tank Setup: Mimic their natural habitat with a sandy substrate and plenty of rocks to create hiding spots. Ensure open swimming spaces and maintain stable water.
 
🧬 Breeding & Behavior:
Ethelwynnae Peacock Cichlids are maternal mouthbrooders. During breeding, males display intensified coloration to attract females. After spawning, females carry the fertilized eggs in their mouths for about three weeks until the fry are ready to be released. Maintaining a male-to-female ratio of 1:3 is recommended to reduce aggression and encourage natural breeding behaviors.​
 
🤝 Compatibility:
This species coexists well with other peaceful to semi-aggressive Lake Malawi cichlids of similar size. Suitable tank mates include other Aulonocara species and non-aggressive Haplochromis species. Avoid housing them with overly aggressive species or those with significantly different water parameter requirements.