Species profile
Blue Neon Peacock
Aulonocara stuartgranti
Semi aggressive
Moderate care
250 L minimum aquarium
10–12 cm adult size
Mid bottom
Minimum group: 4
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Blue Peacock from Lake Malawi intermediate habitat. Requires open sand, hard alkaline water and controlled male competition.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
22–26 °C
pH
7.5–8.5
GH
10–25 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 4
Tank zone
Mid bottom
Territory level
Moderate
Predation risk
Tiny fry
Bioload factor
2.5
Usually best as a single male with several females. Avoid keeping closely related/locality male colour forms together if hybridisation matters.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
Yes
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
Yes
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Invertivore
Minimum aquarium volume
250 L
Minimum footprint
120 × 45 cm
Accepted scientific name
Aulonocara stuartgranti
Alternative names
Blue Neon Peacock, Blue Peacock, Flavescent Peacock, Aulonocara stuartgranti
Native range
Endemic to Lake Malawi; occurs along the coast between Ngara and Chizi Point.
Natural habitat
Intermediate zone with sand and sediment-covered rock. Keep open sand for feeding behaviour and sturdy rock retreats around the margins.
Diet & feeding
Feeds on sand-dwelling invertebrates. Use high-quality cichlid pellets and varied frozen foods without excessive rich protein.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Mature males are far more colourful; females remain silvery-grey/brown and comparatively plain.
Breeding
Maternal mouthbrooder; the female incubates eggs and developing fry orally after spawning in the male’s display territory.