malawi

Aulonocara Baenschi Benga

🐟 Aulonocara baenschi “Benga” — Species Profile
📏 Size

Typical adult size is about 10 – 15 cm (4 – 6 inches) in length. Males and females are similar in size, though males can be slightly larger and more colorful.

🌍 Natural Occurrence

Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa (Malawi).

Specifically found around Nkhomo Reef and nearby Benga areas, in sandy zones with scattered rocks—its main natural habitat.

🐡 Appearance & Behavior

Males are brightly colored—typically yellow body with blue on parts of the head and fins (color can vary by locality or strain).

Females are usually grey-brown or subdued in color.

Peaceful peacock cichlids overall, but males can be territorial and semi-aggressive with other males and especially during breeding.

🍽️ Diet (What They Eat)

In the wild, they forage by sensing and sifting small invertebrates and micro-animals from sandy substrates.

In aquarium care they’re best fed:

High-quality cichlid pellets/flakes

Frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, krill, bloodworms, etc.

Avoid excessive tubifex worms (can contribute to digestive issues in Malawi cichlids).

🏞️ Habitat Preferences (Aquarium)

Needs open swimming space with sandy substrate and some rock shelters to mimic its natural habitat.

Prefers alkaline water typical of Lake Malawi conditions (pH ~7.5–8.5 and moderately hard).

Suitable temperatures are roughly 23–28 °C (73–82 °F).

🧠 Behavior & Compatibility

Generally peaceful for a cichlid, but males will defend territories and display to females.

Works well in Lake Malawi community tanks with other non-aggressive Peacocks or Haps of similar size. Avoid mixing with overly aggressive Mbuna species.

🐣 Breeding

Maternal mouthbrooder: females carry fertilized eggs and young in their mouth for protection until fry are free-swimming.

📌 Quick Summary
Feature Details
Scientific Name Aulonocara baenschi “Benga”
Common Names Benga Peacock, Yellow Sunshine Peacock
Size ~10–15 cm (4–6 in)
Origin Lake Malawi (Nkhomo Reef/Benga)
Diet Carnivorous/omnivorous — live, frozen & pellet foods
Behavior Peaceful but territorial
Tank Needs Sandy substrate, rocks, alkaline water