OB Peacock Cichlid - Aulonocara OB Fish Profile & Care Guide
Introduction
The OB Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara OB) species is one of the most favoured freshwater fish among aquarists worldwide. Renowned for their sociability and dynamic nature, OB Cichlids generally exhibit compatibility with a wide range of other freshwater aquarium fish. However, it is important to note that the manifestation of aggressive territorial behaviours, such as chasing, nipping, and fighting, may occur when these Cichlids are subjected to cramped tank conditions or imbalanced male-to-female ratios.
When considering tank companions for OB Peacock Cichlids, it is advisable to select fish species that thrive in similar water conditions. Ideally, peaceful and friendly fish occupying the upper regions of the tank proved to be the most compatible tank mates.
Highly suitable tank companions for OB Peacock Cichlids include Other Peacock Cichlids, provided a ratio of one male to every two females is maintained to mitigate dominant behaviour. Additionally, species such as Plecos, larger peaceful Barbs, Rainbow sharks, Red tail sharks, Red eye tetras, Botia Loaches, and Synodontis Catfish are considered compatible. Conversely, avoiding housing these Cichlids alongside aggressive species like Bettas, Tiger Barbs, and most other non-aggressive Cichlid species is recommended.
Maintaining the well-being of OB Peacock Cichlids requires relatively straightforward care practices. To ensure optimal conditions for their health, it is essential to replicate the ecosystem of Lake Malawi as closely as possible within the tank.
Regarding substrate choice, a sandy texture proves to be most suitable, as rough or sharp substrates may pose a risk to the fish while they sift through it in search of food. The strategic placement of large rocks, caves, and hollow decorations within the tank serves the dual purpose of providing hiding places for Strawberry Peacock Cichlids and reducing territorial behaviour. Additionally, employing hardy, deep-rooted plants such as anacharis and Java fern can effectively prevent uprooting by these Cichlids.
Given their fast-swimming nature, OB Peacock Cichlids necessitate ample open space within the bottom and mid-sections of the tank. Being diurnal creatures, they exhibit activity during the day and rest during the night, usually congregating and feeding near the substrate at the tank's bottom.
For an individual OB Peacock Cichlid, a minimum tank size of 250 litres is recommended, while a larger tank of 450 litres is advised for maintaining a community of four to six of these fish. Peacock Cichlids are highly active swimmers, utilizing all available space within the tank. Therefore, the tank should be designed with more horizontal area than vertical space.
OB Peacock Cichlids are characterized by their vibrant, iridescent, and colourful appearance, coupled with their elongated torpedo-shaped bodies and sleek, streamlined fins and tails. OB Peacock Cichlids can be found in a variety of colours that range from yellow and orange to red and blue.
All OB males and females have a distinct spotting pattern that is unique to each fish, making no two fish alike. However, female OB Peacocks do not display the bright colours males show.
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Sexual Dimorphism
Distinguishing between male and female OB Peacock Cichlids is a straightforward task. Males typically exhibit notable characteristics that set them apart from females.
They tend to surpass females in terms of size, displaying elongated bodies. Moreover, their colouration is more vibrant and vivid, showcasing brighter and bolder hues when compared to their female counterparts.
Conversely, females exhibit a relatively less striking colouration, appearing less vibrant in comparison. Additionally, females possess rounder bellies, serving as a distinguishing feature from the more streamlined physique observed in males.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Aulonocara OB |
|---|---|
| Other Names | Aulonocaras, Peacocks |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cichliformes |
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Genus | Cobitis |
| Origins | Malawi |
| Approx Max Size | 15 cm |
| Temperament | Semi-Aggressive |
| Aquarium Level | Bottom - Middle |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | 3 Females per Male |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Mouthbrooder |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 8 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 7.5 - 8.5 |
| GH | 4 - 10 |
| ℉ | 76 - 82 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 24 - 28 |
Natural Habitat
The OB Peacock Cichlid, although not endemic to the waters of Lake Malawi, holds significant popularity among enthusiasts. This particular Cichlid species is a hybrid resulting from the intentional crossbreeding of a male Aulonocara species with a female Mbuna of the OB variety. Since its initial breeding, various distinct variants of the OB peacock have been introduced and gained recognition within the aquarium hobby.
Breeding
The breeding process of OB Peacock Cichlids can be described as a relatively straightforward procedure. These mouth-brooding fish typically attain sexual maturity at approximately nine months of age.
To initiate the breeding of OB Peacock Cichlids, it is advised to establish a dedicated breeding tank equipped with specific environmental conditions. Maintaining a water temperature of 82°F, providing a sandy substrate, and incorporating multiple caves to serve as breeding sites are essential factors to consider.
Carefully select one healthy male and up to four healthy females, and transfer them to the designated breeding tank. Upon introduction to the breeding tank, the male will proceed to establish his breeding territory, selecting a cave for his habitation.
Employing a distinctive courtship behaviour characterized by rapid movements from side to side, the male aims to capture the attention of the females. Once a receptive female joins the male, they will engage in breeding activities within the chosen cave, during which the female will deposit her eggs in a nest. Subsequently, the remaining females should be returned to their regular aquarium habitat.
Following the male's fertilization of the eggs, the female assumes the responsibility of collecting and carrying the eggs within her mouth. She will remain inside the cave for up to 28 days, diligently safeguarding the developing eggs until they hatch. Typically, a brood of approximately 12 to 15 fry will emerge from the eggs. To ensure the survival of the offspring, it is advisable to remove the parents from the breeding tank to prevent them from consuming their progeny.
Providing appropriate nourishment for the newly hatched fry is crucial for their growth and well-being. Feeding them with suitable sustenance, such as brine shrimp or infusoria, will support their development. Once the offspring reach a size of approximately 2 inches or longer, they can be safely transferred back to the original tank to join the OB Peacock Cichlid population.
Diet & Feeding
In their natural habitat, OB Peacock Cichlids exhibit an opportunistic feeding behaviour, consuming a diverse array of food sources present in the substrate. Their diet encompasses zooplankton, insects, larvae, algae, crustaceans, and plant matter.
When caring for Peacock Cichlids in a captive environment, providing a similarly varied diet is essential. This can be achieved by offering a combination of high-quality fish food flakes, live or frozen brine shrimp, algae wafers, and vegetables such as blanched spinach and lettuce.
To maintain a healthy feeding regimen, offering a small pinch of food to peacock cichlids two or three times a day is recommended, ensuring that the amount supplied is sufficient for approximately two minutes of feeding. Any uneaten food should be promptly removed from the tank to prevent disturbances to the water chemistry.
It is important to note that certain food items should be avoided when feeding Peacock Cichlids in order to mitigate the risk of Malawi bloat and to preserve their colouration and overall health. Specifically, mammal meat and tubifex worms should be excluded from their diet.
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Published: 16 Jun 2023
Last Updated: 16 Jun 2023