Strawberry Peacock Cichlid - (Aulonocara Species Hybrid)

🐟 Strawberry Peacock Cichlid – (Aulonocara species hybrid) – Vibrant African Cichlid with Striking Pink and Red Colors

The Strawberry Peacock Cichlid is a man-made hybrid variety of Aulonocara (peacock cichlids) developed for its brilliant pink, red, and magenta coloration. While not found in the wild, this hybrid is highly popular in the aquarium trade for its bold colors, active nature, and relatively peaceful temperament compared to other African cichlids. Like other Aulonocara, males are the most colorful, while females display more subdued tones.

🔎 Quick Facts – Strawberry Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara species hybrid)

• 📛 Common Names: Strawberry Peacock, Pink Peacock Cichlid
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Aulonocara species hybrid
• 🌍 Origin: Captive-bred hybrid (not found in the wild) – derived from Lake Malawi Aulonocara species
• 🎨 Appearance: Brilliant pink to red body with metallic iridescence; males more colorful than females
• 📏 Max Size: 5–6 inches (12–15 cm)
• 💎 Rarity: Widely available but prized for high-quality coloration

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• 🤝 Peaceful to mildly territorial, especially males
• 🐟 Best kept with other Malawi peacocks and haps of similar size and temperament
• ⚠️ Avoid housing with overly aggressive mbuna species
• 🌊 Active midwater swimmer

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 55+ gallons
• 🪵 Sandy substrate preferred for natural foraging behavior
• 🌿 Rockwork for territory boundaries, open swimming areas
• 💡 Moderate to bright lighting enhances colors
• 🌊 Strong filtration for excellent water quality

💧 Water Parameters – Strawberry Peacock Care

• 🌡️ Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 7.8–8.6
• 💧 Hardness: Hard, alkaline water preferred

🍽️ Diet – Omnivorous

• 🐟 High-quality cichlid pellets and flakes
• 🦐 Frozen or live foods like brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and krill
• 🌽 Occasional spirulina-based foods to enhance coloration
• ⚠️ Avoid high-protein mammal meats to prevent health issues

📋 Strawberry Peacock Cichlid Overview Table

✨ Highlight:

• The Strawberry Peacock Cichlid offers striking, unnatural pink-red hues that stand out in any African cichlid display tank, making it a favorite among aquarists who appreciate vibrant, designer fish.