Moderate
Benga Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara baenschi)
22–26°C · pH 7.2–8.2 · 200L
£15.99
A brilliantly coloured Peacock cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi, also known as the Yellow Regal Peacock. Males develop stunning yellow and blue colouration. Semi-aggressive, ideal for Peacock community tanks. Available with live arrival guarantee.
Adult size is the maximum length this species reaches at full maturity (scientific sources). The livestock you receive will be younger and smaller — pick a size variant above for the actual shipping size. Product-photo provenance and any image-specific limitations are stated on the listing.
Aulonocara baenschi
Save when buying multiple fish. Each quantity is one fish; sex and pair formation are not guaranteed unless the selected variant explicitly states them.
A brilliantly coloured Peacock cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi, also known as the Yellow Regal Peacock. Males develop stunning yellow and blue colouration. Semi-aggressive, ideal for Peacock community tanks. Available with live arrival guarantee.
Adult size is the maximum length this species reaches at full maturity (scientific sources). The livestock you receive will be younger and smaller — pick a size variant above for the actual shipping size. Product-photo provenance and any image-specific limitations are stated on the listing.
Cichlids are one of the most diverse fish families in the hobby. From tiny apistogrammas to massive oscars, this guide covers the basics of keeping them well.
Maintain these water conditions for optimal health and vibrant colors
The Nkhomo-Benga Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara baenschi), also known as the Yellow Regal Peacock, is a brilliantly coloured haplochromine cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi. Males develop vibrant yellow body colouration with blue highlights at maturity, making this one of the most sought-after Peacock species. Threatened in the wild by collection for the aquarium trade, captive-bred specimens are widely available.
| Scientific Name | Aulonocara baenschi |
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Origin | Lake Malawi, East Africa |
| Care Level | Moderate |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive |
| Adult Size | 13 cm |
| Minimum Tank Size | 150 litres |
| Temperature | 24–28°C |
| pH Range | 7.5–8.5 |
| Water Hardness | 10–25 dGH |
| Diet | Cichlid pellets, frozen brine shrimp, krill, spirulina |
| Lifespan | 10 years |
| Tank Region | Middle |
| Group Size | 1 male with 3+ females |
Endemic to Lake Malawi, East Africa. Found in shallow rocky habitats where it sifts invertebrates from sandy substrates using a specialised sensory system. Males establish territories around rocks. Maternal mouthbrooder — females carry eggs and fry for approximately three weeks.
Provide a minimum of 150 litres. Maintain water between 24–28°C with pH 7.5–8.5 and hardness 10–25 dGH. Arrange rock formations for territory establishment alongside open sandy areas for natural foraging behaviour.
Omnivore. Offer cichlid pellets, frozen brine shrimp, krill, and spirulina. A varied diet promotes the best yellow colouration. Feed two to three times daily in small portions.
Good companions include other Peacock cichlids, mild Haps, and Synodontis. Avoid aggressive Mbuna, small fish, and shrimp. Browse our range including the Haplochromis Sunset Cichlid, Albino Blue Dolphin Cichlid, and Snow White Cichlid for compatible tank mates.
At Tropical Fish Co, every fish is carefully selected and shipped with care across the UK. Live arrival guarantee, expert advice, and competitive prices. Order your Nkhomo-Benga Peacock Cichlid today.
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