Ruby red peacock - Aulonocara rubescens

Scientific name: Aulonocara rubescens

Common name: Ruby red peacock

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 10 - 12 cm (3.94 - 4.72 inch)

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Recommended pH range: 7.5 - 8.5

Recommended water hardness: 16 - 24°N (285.71 - 428.57ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature range: 24 - 26 °C (75.2 - 78.8°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: Africa

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: aggressive to smaller

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Food and Feeding

The Ruby Red Peacock (Aulonocara rubescens) is an omnivore with a preference for high-quality meaty foods. A staple diet of quality flakes or cichlid pellets enriched with vitamins and minerals is essential. Supplement their diet with protein-rich treats such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, krill, and mysis shrimp. Feed small portions 2-3 times daily, ensuring all food is consumed to maintain water quality. Avoid feeding fatty or mammalian proteins like beef heart, as these can cause digestive issues.

Origin

Native to Lake Malawi in Africa, the Ruby Red Peacock inhabits sandy-bottomed regions near rocky outcrops. These environments are characterized by clear, oxygen-rich water with stable parameters, providing ideal conditions for foraging and breeding. Replicating these conditions in aquariums helps ensure their health and natural behaviors.

Sexing

Sexing Aulonocara rubescens is straightforward. Males display vibrant orange to red coloration throughout their body, often highlighted by metallic blue or white accents. Females, by contrast, are drab grey or brown. It is best to keep one male with several females to minimize aggression and prevent hybridization. Avoid mixing different Aulonocara species in the same tank to maintain genetic purity.

Breeding

Ruby Red Peacocks are maternal mouthbrooders. During breeding, the male establishes a territory and performs a vibrant courtship display to attract females. After spawning, the female collects the eggs in her mouth, where she incubates them for approximately 18-21 days. The male does not participate in rearing the young. Once the fry are released, they can be fed newly hatched brine shrimp or finely crushed flakes. Providing a separate breeding or grow-out tank can improve fry survival rates by minimizing predation.

Lifespan

With proper care, Aulonocara rubescens can live 5-8 years. Their longevity depends on maintaining stable water conditions, providing a nutritious diet, and ensuring a stress-free environment.

Tank Setup

To replicate their natural habitat, set up an aquarium with a minimum size of 200 liters (~50 gallons) for a small colony. Include plenty of rock structures to create hiding places and territories while leaving open swimming areas, especially in the mid and bottom regions of the tank. Use a fine sand substrate, as these cichlids enjoy sifting through it while foraging. Maintain the following water parameters for optimal health:

• pH: 7.5-8.5

• Hardness: 16-24°N (285.71-428.57 ppm)

• Temperature: 24-26°C (75.2-78.8°F)

Good filtration and regular water changes are essential to maintain water quality and oxygenation. Avoid strong water currents, as these fish prefer moderate flow.

Temperament and Tankmates

Ruby Red Peacocks are peaceful towards their own species but can display territorial aggression, especially toward smaller or similarly colored fish. Suitable tankmates include other peaceful Malawi cichlids of similar size, such as Placidochromis electra or Cynotilapia afra. Avoid keeping them with overly aggressive or boisterous species that may stress them. Providing visual barriers with rocks and caves can help reduce aggression and establish territories.

Short Description

The Ruby Red Peacock (Aulonocara rubescens) is a vibrant and peaceful cichlid species from Lake Malawi. Known for their striking red and orange coloration, they thrive in well-structured aquariums with sandy substrates and ample hiding spaces. Their manageable size and calm demeanor make them a popular choice among aquarists. With proper care, they are a rewarding addition to any cichlid community tank.