African Cichlid – Flavescent Peacock Cichlid – 5cm

Flavescent Peacock Cichlid: A Vibrant Lake Malawi Beauty

The Flavescent Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara stuartgranti ‘Usisya’) is a dazzling freshwater species celebrated for its golden-yellow hues and shimmering blue accents. Native to the Usisya region of Lake Malawi, this peaceful cichlid is a striking addition to African cichlid setups. Its manageable temperament and vivid colours make it a favourite for aquarists seeking a bold yet harmonious tank inhabitant.

Size and Lifespan

Flavescent Peacock Cichlids grow to 12–15 cm, with males displaying more vibrant colours than females. These hardy fish can live 6–8 years with proper care, providing long-term beauty and activity in your aquarium.

Tank Size and Requirements

A minimum tank size of 200 liters is essential for their active nature. These cichlids thrive in water temperatures between 24°C–28°C, with a pH range of 7.8–8.6. Set up their tank with sandy substrates, rocky caves, and open swimming spaces. Providing hiding spots reduces stress and encourages natural behaviours, helping them thrive in a well-structured environment.

Feeding Flavescent Peacock Cichlids

A balanced diet is crucial to maintain their health and colour. Offer high-quality cichlid pellets or flakes, supplemented with live or frozen treats like brine shrimp or krill. To bring out their vibrant colours, feed them AquaMunch Super Colour products. These nutrient-rich flakes and gels are packed with natural colour enhancers like astaxanthin, which help intensify their golden and blue tones while supporting overall health.

Tank Mates

Flavescent Peacocks are peaceful compared to other cichlids. They pair well with other Peacock Cichlids, Haps, and mild Mbuna species like Yellow Labs. Avoid aggressive tank mates or fish with similar colouration to prevent stress and territorial disputes. A 1:3 male-to-female ratio is recommended to maintain harmony during breeding periods.

Breeding Flavescent Peacock Cichlids

Breeding is achievable in a well-maintained aquarium. Males establish territories and court females with vivid displays. Females are maternal mouthbrooders, carrying fertilized eggs for 18–25 days before releasing fry. Provide flat rocks or sandy areas for spawning. Raising fry in a separate tank improves survival rates. Feed the fry with finely crushed flakes or baby brine shrimp for healthy growth.

FAQs

How big do Flavescent Peacock Cichlids get?
They grow to 12–15 cm, with males being slightly larger and more vibrantly coloured.

Are they aggressive?
They are generally peaceful but may display mild territorial behaviour during breeding.

What tank mates are suitable?
Other Peacock Cichlids, Haps, and non-aggressive Mbuna like Yellow Labs make excellent companions.

What do they eat?
They thrive on cichlid pellets, live or frozen protein, and vegetable-based foods. Using AquaMunch Super Colour enhances their vibrancy.

How do you breed Flavescent Peacock Cichlids?
Provide flat rocks for spawning. Females mouthbrood eggs for 18–25 days before releasing fry.

Species Overview

• Species: Aulonocara stuartgranti ‘Usisya’
• Common Name: Flavescent Peacock Cichlid
• Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa (Usisya Region)
• Diet: Omnivore
• PH Range: 7.8–8.6
• Temperature: 24°C–28°C
• Max Size: Up to 15 cm
• Tank Size: Minimum 200 liters