Description
General Information:
The Lwanda Peacock Cichlid is a dazzling, selectively bred variant of the popular Peacock Cichlids from Lake Malawi. Renowned for its vibrant and dynamic colouration, this cichlid combines intense hues with an elegant, streamlined body form. Its striking appearance paired with a relatively peaceful temperament makes it a sought-after centrepiece for both community and species-specific aquariums. Ideal for aquarists looking to showcase the brilliance of Malawi cichlids, the Lwanda Peacock offers both visual appeal and engaging behaviour.
Species Overview:
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Common Name: Lwanda Peacock Cichlid
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Scientific Name: Aulonocara sp. “Lwanda”
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Origin: Selectively 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: Approximately 15 cm (6 inches)
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Tank Size: Minimum 55 gallons
Water Quality:
Lwanda Peacock Cichlids thrive in clean, well-oxygenated water with a stable alkaline pH between 7.5 and 8.5. A setup mimicking the shallow, sandy and rocky zones of Lake Malawi is ideal—providing ample open swimming space and secure hiding spots to reduce stress and support natural behaviours.
Feeding:
These cichlids enjoy a balanced, omnivorous diet. High-quality cichlid pellets or flakes form a reliable staple, while supplemented live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and tubifex add protein and variety. Additionally, a small portion of vegetable matter—like spirulina-based foods—can help enhance their brilliant colours. Feed them once or twice daily, ensuring all the food is consumed quickly to maintain optimal water quality.
Tank Mates:
The Lwanda Peacock exhibits a relatively peaceful demeanour compared to more aggressive Malawi cichlids. They do well alongside other similarly sized and temperamental species such as other Peacock Cichlids, Haplochromis, and certain Mbuna that share the same water parameters. For a harmonious community setup, maintain a ratio that minimises territorial disputes, typically one male with several females.
Sexing:
Sex differentiation in Lwanda Peacocks is subtle but noticeable upon careful observation. Males tend to display more vivid and intense colouration, especially during breeding periods, with larger, flowing fins, while females exhibit more subdued hues and a slightly smaller, more rounded body shape. These differences become more pronounced as the fish mature and engage in social behaviours.
Breeding:
Lwanda Peacock Cichlids are maternal mouthbrooders. During spawning, the female collects and incubates the fertilised eggs in her mouth for approximately three weeks until the fry are ready to swim freely. Providing flat surfaces, caves, and a stress-free environment can encourage natural spawning behaviour and improve fry survival rates.
Maximum Size and Longevity:
These cichlids can grow to about 15 cm (6 inches) and, with proper care, can live 8–10 years. Maintaining stable water conditions, a varied diet, and ample space are key to ensuring their long-term health and vibrant display.
Fun Fact:
The Lwanda Peacock Cichlid is celebrated not only for its brilliant colours, but also for its ability to subtly shift its colouration in response to social interactions and changes in mood—making every encounter with this fish a unique visual experience.
