Emperor Cichlid

Aulonocara nyassae, the Emperor Cichlid or blue peacock, is the type species of the Aulonocara peacocks, endemic to Lake Malawi's intermediate zone where sand meets rock. Dominant males are spectacular, washed in metallic blue with dark barring and fin highlights, while females stay grey-brown. It grows to roughly 15 cm and, like other peacocks, hunts small invertebrates by sensing vibrations over the sand, making it a carnivorous micro-predator. Provide at least 300 litres with open sand, rock structure and caves, keeping one male with several females and calm cichlid tankmates. Water should be hard and alkaline, 24-28°C, pH 7.7-8.6. Feed carnivore pellets and frozen mysis or brine shrimp, avoiding high-protein or mammalian foods that trigger Malawi bloat. Many commercial 'blue peacocks' are hybrids, so seek reputable stock.