Aulonocara Maylandi

Aulonocara maylandi (Sulfurhead Peacock Cichlid)

Description:

The Aulonocara maylandi, commonly known as the Sulfurhead Peacock, is a rare and striking species of peacock cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in Africa. Males are especially stunning, displaying a deep blue body with a bright yellow "sulfur" stripe running along the top of the head and dorsal fin. Known for their beauty and relatively peaceful nature among African cichlids, this species is a prized addition for advanced hobbyists looking to add vibrant color and character to their tank.

Features:

• Vivid electric blue body with a bright yellow dorsal stripe (“sulfur head”)
• Displays best coloration in males when fully mature
• Active and intelligent, often responsive to the presence of the aquarist
• One of the more peaceful peacock cichlids, suitable for Malawi setups

Care Instructions:

• Tank Size: Minimum 55 gallons, ideally part of an all-male peacock or species-specific tank
• Water Parameters: pH 7.8–8.6, hard and alkaline water preferred
• Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
• Diet: Carnivorous; thrives on high-quality cichlid pellets, spirulina, and occasional frozen or live foods like brine shrimp
• Compatibility: Best with other similarly sized and temperamented Malawi cichlids. Avoid housing with overly aggressive mbuna or very timid species