Red Shoulder Peacock Cichlid: A Vibrant Lake Malawi BeautyThe Red Shoulder Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara hansbaenschi Chiloelo), also known as the Hansbaenschi Peacock, is a stunning freshwater species from Lake Malawi. Its bright red-orange shoulders and shimmering blue body make it a standout addition to any cichlid aquarium. This peaceful and vibrant fish is perfect for aquarists looking to add dynamic colour and elegance to their tank.Size and LifespanRed Shoulder Peacocks can grow up to 12–15 cm, with males typically being larger and more colourful than females. With proper care, they can live for 6–8 years, providing years of enjoyment in your aquarium.Tank Size and RequirementsA tank of at least 200 liters is required to accommodate their active swimming and territorial behaviour. They thrive in water temperatures between 24°C–28°C and a pH range of 7.8–8.6. Recreate their natural Lake Malawi environment with sandy substrates, rocky caves, and open swimming areas. Providing hiding spots helps reduce stress and supports natural behaviours.Feeding Red Shoulder PeacocksThese omnivorous cichlids thrive on a varied diet. Offer high-quality cichlid pellets or flakes as their staple food. Supplement with live or frozen protein-rich options like brine shrimp or krill to enhance their vibrant colours. To achieve their brightest red and blue hues, include AquaMunch Super Colour products in their diet. These nutrient-packed foods are designed to enhance colouration while supporting overall health.Tank MatesRed Shoulder Peacocks are generally peaceful and do well with other mild-mannered African cichlids. Suitable companions include other Peacock Cichlids, Haps, and non-aggressive Mbuna species like Yellow Labs. Avoid pairing them with overly aggressive or similarly coloured fish to prevent stress and territorial disputes.Breeding Red Shoulder PeacocksBreeding these cichlids is straightforward in a well-maintained aquarium. Males establish territories and display their brightest colours to attract females. Females are maternal mouthbrooders, carrying fertilized eggs for 18–25 days before releasing fry. Providing flat rocks or sandy areas for spawning encourages natural breeding behaviours. For better fry survival, consider using a separate breeding tank.FAQsWhere can I buy Red Shoulder Peacocks in Australia? They are available for sale at aquarium stores and online retailers in Australia.How big do Red Shoulder Peacocks get? They grow up to 12–15 cm, with males being larger and more vibrant.Are they aggressive? They are generally peaceful but may show mild territorial behaviour, especially during breeding.What do they eat? They thrive on cichlid pellets, live or frozen protein, and AquaMunch Super Colour products to enhance their colours.What tank mates are suitable? Other Peacock Cichlids, Haps, and non-aggressive Mbuna species like Yellow Labs make excellent companions.Species OverviewSpecies: Aulonocara hansbaenschiCommon Name: Red Shoulder Peacock CichlidOrigin: Lake Malawi, AfricaDiet: OmnivorePH Range: 7.8–8.6Temperature: 24°C–28°CMax Size: Up to 15 cmTank Size: Minimum 200 liters
