Lake Malawi Butterfly Cichlid | Aulonocara jacobfreibergi
Cichlids / Africa / Lake Malawi / Peacock Cichlids / Lake Malawi Butterfly Cichlid
Profile: Jacobfreibergi, Lake Malawi Butterfly Cichlid
Aulonocara jacobfreibergi []
Aulonocara jacobfreibergi
Synonyms: None
Physical description: An elongated cichlid whose body shape is similar to that of other Peacock Cichlids. Several different color variations are known, although only one is common in the hobby. A dark, indigo blue color extends along the lower jaw and to the rear part of the body. The forehead and the upper back is reddish-brown in color. Nine to ten faint, but dark, horizontal stripes are located on the body. The first starts just behind the gill cover, and the last ends at the base of the tail. The dorsal and caudal fins are iridescent blue and the pectoral fin is transparent. The anal fin is red and black with an electric blue trim. The first ray of the pelvic fins is also an electric blue color.
Size/Length: To 5" (13 cm)
Similar species: Peacock Cichlid ( Aulonocara hansbaenschi) Aulonocara korneliae, Aulonocara nyassae, Grant's Peacock ( Aulonocara stuartgranti )
Habitat: Eastern Africa; rocky and sandy areas of Lake Malawi.
S: bottom, middle
Aquarium: 40" (100 cm) or 40 gallons (150 L). Set-up the tank as one would for other peacock cichlids. See the introduction for Peacock Cichlids.
Water chemistry: pH 7.5-8.8 (8.2), 10-25 dH (15), 77-84°F (25-29°C)
Social behavior: A peaceful fish that can be combined in a community tank containing other robust fish. Keep one male with several females. The Lake Malawi Butterfly Cichlid has similar behavior to other Peacocks.
Suggested companions: Synodontis, Lamprologus (and allies), Lake Tanganyika Rainbowfish ( Lamprichthys ).
FOOD: Live; bloodworms, mosquito larvae, crustaceans, snails, Tubifex; pellets; tablets
SEX: Females are pale, while males are more colorful-usually dark indigo blue.
Breeding techniques: See A. hansbaenschi.
Breeding potential: 6. Breeding this Peacock is not especially difficult.
Remarks: Several different color morphs are imported.
Difficulty of care: 4. A hardy Peacock, whose diet should include live foods.