Red Shoulder Peacock - (Aulonocara stuartgranti)

🐟 Red Shoulder Peacock – (Aulonocara stuartgranti) – Colorful African Cichlid for Sale

The Red Shoulder Peacock (Aulonocara stuartgranti) is a brilliantly colored African cichlid from Lake Malawi. Males display electric blue bodies with vivid red or orange on the shoulders and dorsal fin, making them a favorite among Peacock cichlid enthusiasts. Females are more subdued in color but still attractive in their own right.

Peacock cichlids are known for their peaceful temperament (by cichlid standards) and vibrant displays, making them excellent choices for colorful, active African cichlid community tanks.

🔎 Quick Facts – Red Shoulder Peacock (Aulonocara stuartgranti)

• 📛 Common Names: Red Shoulder Peacock, Stuart Grant’s Peacock
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Aulonocara stuartgranti
• 🌍 Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa
• 🎨 Appearance: Males have bright blue bodies with striking red/orange on the shoulders and dorsal fin; females are silver-gray with faint markings
• 📏 Max Size: 4–6 inches (10–15 cm)
• 💎 Availability: Common in the hobby; often captive-bred

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• 🤝 Relatively peaceful for an African cichlid
• 🐟 Best kept with other Peacocks and peaceful Haps
• 👫 Males are territorial during breeding; multiple females per male recommended
• ⚠️ Avoid housing with aggressive Mbuna

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 55+ gallons
• 🌿 Sandy substrate with rocks and caves
• 🪵 Open swimming areas
• 💡 Bright lighting enhances colors
• 🌊 Moderate water movement and excellent filtration

💧 Water Parameters – Red Shoulder Peacock Care

• 🌡️ Temperature: 76–82°F (24–28°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 7.8–8.6
• 💧 Hardness: Hard, alkaline water

🍽️ Diet – Omnivorous (Insectivore Leaning)

• 🌾 High-quality cichlid pellets and flakes
• 🦐 Frozen or live brine shrimp, mysis shrimp
• 🪱 Bloodworms (occasionally)
• 🥬 Spirulina-based foods for color enhancement

📋 Red Shoulder Peacock Care Overview Table

✨ Highlight:

• The Red Shoulder Peacock offers brilliant coloration and a generally peaceful temperament, making it one of the most popular choices for vibrant Lake Malawi aquariums.