These patches are brighter on their face and continue onto their caudal and dorsal fins. When you put time and thought into selecting your African Peacock cichlid tank mates, that is when you can ensure the success of your aquarium for a long time. This means maintaining the recommended water parameters, water quality, and diet. The OB peacock cichlid is probably our favorite. An active, skillful swimmer, the peacock is ever on the lookout for potential prey. If the water parameters waver, you may experience an increase in tension among tank mates, including your African peacock cichlid. Peacock cichlid tank mates come in many forms, including other species from Lake Malawi, and other non-cichlid varieties of fish. We’ve found ourselves in disbelief a number of times when looking at these fish in person! Other genetic components play a part as well, but they are impractical to test for. If this is the case, keep practicing and gaining more experience before you get one! It is important to note that Sciaenochromis are piscivorous and eat the fry of other fish species, including the peacock cichlid. Peacock Cichlid Tank Mates Peacock Cichlids are one of the few types of Cichlids that can cohabitate well with other types of fish. The African peacock cichlid is an easy tank mate to keep because it is peaceful and easygoing. Another option when choosing plants is to go with some of the best floating plants so any disturbances to the substrate aren’t an issue. Don’t be afraid to ask at your local fish specialist regarding compatible Peacock cichlid tank mates, as sometimes you will not know about a potential compatible tank mate until it is suggested to you by a more seasoned expert. Peacock Cichlid Size Peacock cichlids usually range in size with the average being anywhere from 4 to 6 inches, which means the fish can fit in a tank that is between 45 and 55 gallons. These fish are a tame member of the cichlid family and will do fine with other non-aggressive fish. Mbuna Cichlid. If that’s successful the female will lay her eggs in front of his cave (hence why they males need their own space) so he can fertilize them. When choosing tank mates for the Peacock Cichlids, it is important to keep the water conditions in mind and select a species that can withstand them. Author Note: Because it’s so important to keep the water parameters consistent with this fish, we highly recommend getting a good water test kit. Peacock Cichlid Tank Mates. The fish you choose as peacock cichlid tank mates need to be able to survive in the same water conditions as your African peacock cichlids in addition to standing up to any territorial behavior from any more aggressive cichlids in your tank. While it would be excessive to list them all, this section will share some general info about the most popular varieties. The Discus fish is an exceptionally beautiful fish that comes in a variety of colors. But if you want this kind of beauty in your tank at home, you need to understand their specific needs. There are exceptions to every rule, however, as every genus has a few species that are more docile than the rest. It can be hard to find a true strawberry, so good luck! That’s why we put together this guide on peacock cichlid care. Keeping cichlids from the same region together is also recommended. Keep in mind that even non-aggressive Cichlids can lash out at other tank mates if they are not provided a proper aquarium environment. Placidochromis – Placidochromis is a genus consisting of 43 recognized species. In the aquarium environment, this cichlid species is best kept with other docile cichlids. They show very little aggression. First of all, some are aggressive and others are not. They get their name from the brilliant colors they display, reminiscent of a peacock’s tail. Learn more. Breeding African peacock cichlids can be difficult due to the territorial nature of the males, which causes them to be solitary and less compatible. This problem is caused by intestinal gas or parasites that infect the swim bladder. I was thinking about adding either a Chilumba or an Baenschi Peacock. However, the cichlids are extremely variable in length with some growing up to about 8 to 9 inches long. In any event, never overfeed any species of cichlid, as they tend to consume whatever is available. A quality cichlid pellet that sinks to the bottom of the tank should be the foundation of their diet along with supplements of meat and vegetables. Although male peacock cichlids tend to travel alone, they become polygamous when they’re ready to breed and will play the field any chance they get! Rainbow Fish can make good tank mates with the African Cichlids. Author Note: There have been situations where peacock cichlids have lived as long as 10 or even 15 years! Each has a distinct vibrant color that can’t be matched by most other freshwater species. If you’re unsure simply compare the recommended water parameters for each to see if there’s any overlap! To prevent this disease, avoid feeding your fish an excessive amount of protein or dried food and add more fiber, such as vegetables. Many cichlid-keepers tend to choose tank mates that are from Lake Malawi because they naturally prefer the same water parameters. Otherwise, problems amongst your tank mates can be disastrous! In contrast, the larger ones like blue Cichlids need a 50 gallons tank. Because cichlids are mostly aggressive, they are generally not community fish and only do best in species tanks. In general, though, these aren’t fish that you need to worry too much about. But before you even introduce the Rainbow Fish to the same tank environment with the African Cichlids, make sure it is large enough. Combine their beauty with their relatively docile behavior, and you’ll find that it’s hard to resist adding them to your tank! They’re found in tanks…, the most colorful freshwater fish species, The 15 Best Types Of Freshwater Aquarium Catfish, Clown Loach Care: Tank Size, Food, Lifespan, Tank Mates…, Indian Almond Leaves: Benefits For Your Aquarium, The 35 Best Low Light Aquarium Plants (Must-See), 35 Peaceful Community Fish For Your Tank (Updated List), Malaysian Trumpet Snail 101: Detailed Info & Care Tips. All are from the genus Aulonocara, and popular with aquarists because of the bright colors that males display, which is also their characteristic that helped them get the name of Peacock Cichlid. In a bunch of cichlids, they will dwell singly in addition to in pairs. You’ll need as much accuracy as possible if you want to care for peacocks the right way. You actually have a lot of options when it comes to choosing peacock cichlid tank mates. Are you looking for the most compatible peacock cichlid tank mates? Although peacocks are territorial, they’re less aggressive than other cichlids. Remember that peacock cichlids hunt for food near the bottom of their native habitat, so never use gravel for substrate, as it could damage the fish’s gills. Sunshine Peacock: These moderately-aggressive fish are resilient, making them another good choice for new hobbyists. When he’s ready, the male will start to do a mating dance/movement pattern to attract the female. Granules and cichlid-appropriate flakes can work fine too if that’s what you prefer. We’ve helped hundreds of thousands of aquarists figure out the best fish for them, and we’ll gladly do the same for you. They are known best for their striking colors, making them perhaps the most popular group of Cichlids for hobbyists. Tank Size: 55 gal (208L) for single, 75 gal (284L) for group There are 22 species of peacock cichlids, all hailing from Lake Malawi. Colors vary within the species and depend on which area of Lake Malawi the variety originated. One manner in which you can ensure compatibility in your African peacock cichlid tank is to house peacock cichlids with other peacock cichlid tank mates. These fish are a tame member of the cichlid family and will do fine with other non-aggressive fish. Try to add many different plants and hiding places for your fish. Live insects that sink to the bottom are also good, as are live or frozen brine shrimp and Daphnia, or common water fleas. Also, remember that more space for your tank mates is better, especially when mixing male and female Malawi cichlids. The main difference to look for is the subtle dotted pattern on their bodies. When choosing tank mates for your peacock cichlid, compatibility should not be your only consideration. This will not only prevent obesity, but it will help maintain stable water parameters. The African peacock is a Lake Malawi cichlid, and they tend to prefer alkaline water with a stable pH level. Both females and young fish are a dull gray in color, but males become a stunning shade of iridescent yellow, gold, orange, red, purple or blue as they mature. As referenced previously, the Venustus cichlids are viewed as a tranquil network fish, however, they have high propensities of being forceful predators. When considering adding additional Peacock cichlid tank mates from one of these species, make sure to consider their individual feeding requirements. If you keep a large community of peacocks, you may need a tank that holds at least 100 gallons of water to further inhibit their territorial behavior. Miscellaneous Tankmates Various types of danios and tetras may be housed with African cichlids, as can the Australian rainbow fish. Another consideration that you can make is that there are many different species of African peacock cichlids, so you can experiment with different species to mix varieties and colorations. Peacock cichlids are used to very clear waters in their natural habitat and their health will suffer if you don’t maintain their water quality. Not only are “Haps” endemic to Lake Malawi, meaning that they are compatible tank mates with the peacock cichlid in terms of water requirements, but several species are particularly docile and peaceful. When you compare them to a fish like the Jack Dempsey or flowerhorn cichlid, they’re downright pacifists! The average size of a male peacock cichlid is roughly 6 inches, with females typically maxing out at 4 inches. Cichlid Guide is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. Do this gradually since these fish are sensitive to sudden changes. Just keep in mind that they are bottom dwellers, so if you do want to give them friends, make sure they are fish who inhabit the upper parts of the tank. Red peacock cichlids are definitely the most popular type, and it’s obvious why. Do not keep with these tank mates: Snails and shrimps, because they will be attacked. The African peacock cichlid is an easy tank mate to keep because it is peaceful and easygoing. I currently have a group of peacocks, 3 Jeweled Cichlids, and one very large Chinese Algae-eater (he's 7 or 8 inches long) in a 36 gallon tank. To minimize the risk of overfeeding you should feeding peacock cichlids several small meals a day. • Plecostomus: The Plecostomus is a common companion in a Peacock cichlid tank because it will help keep the tank clean, but because it is a bottom feeder, it will stay out of everyone’s way. It is important that you consider water conditions and temperament when considering compatibility in your Peacock cichlid tank mates to achieve the best results. Most African and Central American Cichlids are aggressive in nature; hence they must not be kept together in the same tank. They do not share the reputation of being aggressive as other Cichlids do, and are significantly more peaceful. Any suggestions? Each of these genera are especially popular among aquarists for being relatively peaceful in captivity. Peacock Cichlids are some of the most colorful fish in the world. Peacock cichlid care is something that beginning or experienced aquarists should have no trouble with. Its stunning coloration makes it a fan favorite, and its entertaining personality also does not hurt! Their lifespan is usually between 7-12 years depending on their treatment. The peacock cichlid is one of the most popular freshwater fishes among aquarists all over the world. If you think one fish may be infected, immediately remove the other fish to another tank. For this reason, a lot of people will prefer to put other species that are also native to Lake Malawi and can withstand the conditions of the natural habitat. This is due to peacock cichlids having rather unique water parameter requirements, so you will also need to make sure that any tank mates you add have similar water requirements as well. Alison has been interested in fish and aquariums for over five years. In general, these fish are fairly low-maintenance and relatively docile. You can help to prevent or alleviate aggressive behavior by the many tank mates in your aquarium by creating many different territories in your tank using decorations. To add fish without starting fights, the new species should occupy a different area of the tank. They are native to Lake Malawi and are one of the most friendly and peaceful members of the Cichlids. Fortunately, peacock cichlids will avoid eating aquarium plants so you don’t need to worry about that (just digging). They also have a very interesting bit of blue scattered throughout their fins. However, you should choose only hardy plants such as hornwort, because peacock cichlids have a habit of digging and disturbing foliage. These fish are a bright reddish-pink and some even have some interesting dots that cover their fins. When it comes to adding non-cichlid tank mates to your peacock cichlid tank, your consideration will need to be about water compatibility as well as territoriality. The aggressive nature of this group of fish makes it hard for them to mix with other fish without fighting. Mbuna are too rambunctious for this slow-moving and peaceful peacock. As we mentioned earlier, there are many different types of peacock cichlids. This means temperature, pH levels, and hardness all should be kept as consistent as possible. Other peacocks and many of the Haps work well as tank mates. Smaller Cichlid, like electric yellow Cichlid, needs a minimum of 30 gallons tank. Like other cichlids, peacocks rank among the most brightly colored of all freshwater aquarium fish. Peacock Cichlid. The Venustus can get aggressive. The spotted climbing perch, which is related to the Siamese fighting fish, is an eye-catching addition to the African cichlid aquarium. Its stunning coloration makes it a fan favorite, and its entertaining personality also does not hurt! Aquarium OB Peacock Cichlid Fish are some of the most colorful freshwater fish!to keep. Only a few species, however, are commonly kept in aquariums, and these include the African butterfly peacock, the flavescent peacock, the sunshine peacock, the Nkhomo-benga peacock, the maulana bicolor peacock, the Aulonocara Fort Maguire cichlid, and the Aulonocara blue gold cichlid. It’s common to keep one species on its own, but you’re not limited to this. Besides Acei because I have 1 … If you have any questions about these fish or have suggestions on ways we can improve this care guide, send them our way. No matter what species you’re admiring, you’ll agree that peacock cichlids are some of the most colorful freshwater fish species, and it’s only fitting they share their name with a regal bird.