Description
General Information:
The Albino Dragon Blood Peacock is a vibrant, line-bred variant of the popular Peacock Cichlid, distinguished by its soft pink to peach body, red eyes, and shimmering iridescence. This unique albino form originates from selective breeding rather than the wild and is sought after for its rare, elegant colouration and bold personality. Despite their striking looks, they are relatively peaceful and thrive in well-maintained aquariums that mimic the rocky and sandy shorelines of Lake Malawi.
Species Overview:
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Species: Aulonocara sp.
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Common Name: Albino Dragon Blood Peacock
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Origin: Line-bred variant (Lake Malawi ancestry)
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Diet: Omnivorous
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pH Range: 7.5–8.5
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Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
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Max Size: 13–15 cm (5–6 inches)
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Tank Size: Minimum 55 gallons
Water Quality:
Like other peacock cichlids, Albino Dragon Bloods flourish in clean, alkaline, and well-oxygenated water. A pH between 7.5 and 8.5 and a temperature range of 24–28°C should be maintained. Their environment should feature rocky structures for territories, open spaces for swimming, and a sandy substrate to reflect their natural habitat.
Feeding:
These omnivores do well on a balanced diet of quality cichlid pellets or flakes, along with live or frozen treats such as brine shrimp, mysis, and bloodworms. Supplementing with spirulina or other vegetable matter helps maintain their health and colouration. Feed twice daily and only what they can consume within a few minutes to preserve water quality.
Tank Mates:
Albino Dragon Blood Peacocks are semi-aggressive, but typically more tolerant than other African cichlids. Compatible tank mates include other Peacock Cichlids, Haplochromis, and similarly tempered species of similar size. Avoid housing them with smaller, timid fish to prevent bullying, and ideally keep one male with multiple females to diffuse aggression.
Sexing:
Males showcase the most intense colouration, with brighter pink and orange tones, while females tend to be lighter and more subdued in colour. Males also develop longer dorsal and anal fins. Sexing becomes more reliable as the fish mature and display territorial behaviours.
Breeding:
These peacocks are maternal mouthbrooders. After fertilisation, females carry the eggs in their mouths for about three weeks, protecting the developing fry until they’re ready to swim freely. Providing flat rocks, a stress-free setting, and stable water conditions encourages natural breeding activity.
Maximum Size and Longevity:
Reaching up to 15 cm (6 inches), Albino Dragon Blood Peacocks can live 5 to 8 years in a healthy, well-maintained tank. Their longevity is influenced by water quality, diet, space, and peaceful tank dynamics.
Fun Fact:
The Albino Dragon Blood Peacock’s mesmerising appearance—marked by its albino pigmentation and fiery tones—has made it one of the most admired designer peacocks in the aquarium trade, often stealing the spotlight in any cichlid tank setup.
