OB Lwanda
Aulonocara sp. "Lwanda" OB
OB Lwanda is Ron’s line-bred OB form of the Lwanda peacock, with variable blue, purple, yellow, and occasional orange-red accents. The appeal is the individuality: no two OB Lwanda males develop exactly the same pattern or color balance.
Origin and Habitat
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Native Region: Ron’s line-bred aquarium strain from Lake Malawi Lwanda peacock stock.
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Natural Habitat: Intermediate zone in the wild form; aquariums should provide sand, rocks, and open swimming space.
Physical Characteristics
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Size: 6-7 inches.
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Coloration: Variable OB color with blue or purple plus yellow; some individuals show orange or red accents.
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Body Shape: Medium peacock body with a laterally compressed profile.
Behavior and Temperament
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Temperament: Mildly aggressive.
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Social Behavior: Best with other peacocks and peaceful to moderately assertive haps.
Aquarium Care
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Tank Size: A 55 gallon aquarium or larger is recommended.
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Water Parameters: 74-84°F, pH 7.4-8.4, hard water.
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Tank Setup: Provide sand, open swimming lanes, rockwork for cover and sight breaks, and stable filtration.
Diet and Feeding
Breeding
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Breeding Type: Maternal mouthbrooder.
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Breeding Notes: Males display to females and may claim preferred areas. Females hold eggs and fry in the mouth, and fry should be protected after release.
Tank Mates
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Compatible With: Lake Malawi peacocks and peaceful to moderately assertive haps.
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Avoid: Very aggressive mbuna, large predators, and small community fish.
Conservation Status
The Aulonocara sp. 'Lwanda' species are listed by CARES as Critically Endangered. Ron’s Cichlids promotes sustainability by captive breeding this species for the aquarium trade, helping reduce pressure on wild-caught specimens.
