Description
The Red Shoulder Peacock Cichlid is a vibrant African cichlid native to Lake Malawi, admired for its intense coloration and elegant swimming behavior. This stunning variety displays a brilliant red to orange shoulder and upper body, blending seamlessly into blue or metallic hues along the lower half. As the fish matures, its colors deepen and become even more striking, making it a true showpiece in any aquarium.
Behavior & Temperament
- Generally peaceful compared to many Malawi cichlids
- Can become territorial during breeding, especially males
- Males display enhanced coloration to establish dominance and attract females
- Mild chasing may occur in smaller tanks
Providing adequate space and visual barriers helps reduce aggression.
Tank Requirements
- Minimum Tank Size: 250 litres (larger recommended for community setups)
- Substrate: Fine sand
- Décor: Rocks, caves, and open swimming areas
Diet
The Red Shoulder Peacock Cichlid is omnivorous and thrives on a varied diet:
- High-quality cichlid pellets
- Protein-rich flakes
- Occasional live or frozen foods (brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms)
- Some plant-based content for balanced nutrition
A nutritious diet enhances coloration and overall vitality.
Compatibility
- Best kept with other Peacock Cichlids or Haps
- Avoid overly aggressive tank mates
- Recommended ratio: 1 male to multiple females to minimize male aggression
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