OB Peacock Cichlid
Aulonocara sp.
Description
The OB Peacock Cichlid is a hybrid variety of the Peacock Cichlid, specifically bred for its striking coloration and unique patterning. These fish have a vibrant base color that ranges from bright orange and yellow to deeper red and blue hues. The “OB” in OB Peacock stands for “Orange Blotch,” referring to the unique pattern of orange spots or blotches scattered across the body of the fish, which contrasts beautifully with the blue, yellow, and orange hues on their fins and body. Males are typically more colorful, especially during the breeding season, displaying vibrant colors, while females tend to be more muted but still possess some of the characteristic coloration.
Habitat Origin
The OB Peacock Cichlid is native to Lake Malawi in East Africa, particularly in rocky areas along the shores of the lake. These fish are typically found in rocky and sandy areas, where they can find crevices to hide in. In their natural habitat, they thrive in well-oxygenated water with neutral to slightly alkaline pH and moderate water flow. They are often found in regions with rocky structures and some aquatic vegetation.
Aquarium
Ideal Number in Aquarium: Best kept singly or in small groups, particularly 1 male with 2-3 females to prevent aggression among males. Adequate space and hiding spots are essential.
Favorite Food
OB Peacock Cichlids are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods. They can be fed high-quality cichlid pellets, live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and krill. They will also benefit from plant-based foods, such as spirulina, blanched zucchini, and lettuce. A varied diet will help maintain their health, vibrancy, and optimal growth.
Behavior:
OB Peacock Cichlids are peaceful and active, making them a popular choice for cichlid enthusiasts. They tend to be less aggressive than many other cichlid species, which makes them suitable for community tanks with other peaceful fish. However, males can become territorial, especially during breeding, and they may display aggression towards other males. They are intelligent and curious, often seen exploring their environment, especially near rocks or hiding spots. These fish are known to be interactive, and some individuals will learn to recognize their owners and interact with them during feeding.
Special Care:
OB Peacock Cichlids thrive in well-maintained tanks with stable water conditions. Regular water changes and good filtration are essential to maintaining water quality. Since these fish come from rocky environments, it is best to replicate this in the aquarium with rocks, caves, and other hiding spots. They enjoy a slightly alkaline environment and require a soft or sandy substrate. Adequate space is essential to reduce territorial aggression, particularly in tanks with multiple males.
Compatibility with Other Fish:
OB Peacock Cichlids are best kept with other peaceful species of similar size and temperament. They can live with other African cichlids from Lake Malawi, such as other Aulonocara species, or peaceful species like Corydoras catfish or Rainbowfish. However, they should not be housed with overly aggressive or much larger fish, as this may lead to stress and aggression. A tank with plenty of hiding spots and ample space is crucial to prevent territorial disputes.
Breeding Tank Setup
A separate breeding tank is highly recommended for OB Peacock Cichlids due to their territorial nature during spawning. A tank of at least 200 liters (50 gallons) provides ample space for the breeding pair to establish territory and ensures a calm environment. Maintain water parameters at a pH of 7.5–8.5, temperature of 26–30°C, and hardness between 10–15 dGH. Use a canister or high-flow internal filter, but ensure it doesn’t create strong currents. A fine gravel or sand substrate combined with flat rocks, caves, or ceramic pots offers ideal spawning sites. Though plants aren’t essential, hardy decorations can help reduce stress. Maintain a 10–12 hour light cycle with some shaded areas to mimic their natural environment.
Selecting Breeders
To prepare OB Peacock Cichlids for breeding, provide a high-protein, varied diet. Offer live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia, along with quality cichlid pellets or flakes formulated for peacocks. A nutrient-rich diet helps females develop eggs and stimulates breeding behavior in males. Perform 20–30% partial water changes regularly to maintain water quality. Slightly increasing the temperature to 28°C a day or two before breeding can trigger spawning.
Spawning Process
Once conditioned and under stable conditions, males begin displaying their intense colors and performing courtship dances. When receptive, the female lays 50–150 eggs on flat surfaces like rocks, and the male fertilizes them immediately. OB Peacock Cichlids are maternal mouthbrooders, so the female carries the fertilized eggs in her mouth for incubation. The male stays nearby to guard the area. There’s no need to separate the breeders unless aggression arises or tankmates are present that may cause stress.
Fry Care & Growth
Eggs hatch in about 3–4 days, depending on the temperature. The fry remain in the female’s mouth for protection until they are ready to swim freely, usually after a week. At this stage, feed them infusoria, finely crushed flakes, or newly hatched brine shrimp. As they grow, introduce baby brine shrimp or micro cichlid pellets. Maintain stable, clean water by changing 10–15% every 2–3 days, and use a sponge filter to avoid harming the fry. Avoid strong currents and ensure the tank remains calm and warm.
Maturity, Sexing & Stress Prevention
OB Peacock Cichlids reach breeding maturity at 1–2 years of age, depending on their size and health. Males are more vibrant, displaying red, orange, or blue hues and elongated dorsal fins, especially during breeding. Females are less colorful and more rounded, particularly when carrying eggs. To prevent stress, avoid overcrowding, maintain stable water parameters, and remove aggressive tankmates. A peaceful and stable setup helps ensure successful spawning and healthy fry development.