Chidunga Rocks Sunshine
Aulonocara sp. "Maleri"
Chidunga Rocks Sunshine is a Maleri Sunshine-type peacock with yellow to darker orange male color potential. Color can vary between individual males, and the fish do best when given stable Malawi water, room to display, and compatible tank mates.
Physical Characteristics
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Size: 6-7 inches.
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Coloration: Males available may range from yellow to darker orange, with mature males showing the strongest color.
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Body Shape: Medium peacock body with a laterally compressed profile.
Origin and Habitat
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Native Region: Chidunga Rocks is in southern Lake Malawi on the Malawi side of the lake, close to Chitseko Reef, Chipoka, and Linthipe River.
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Natural Habitat: Intermediate habitat. Occurs at depths of 26-39 ft. Feeds over sand and breeds inside caves formed by rocks resting on the sand.
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Distribution: Namalenje Island, Nankoma Island, Maleri Island, Nakantenga.
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Same-Locality Cichlids: Other cichlids recorded from Chidunga Rocks include Chindongo sp. 'burrower' Chidunga Rocks, Copadichromis borleyi 'Chidunga Rocks', Copadichromis insularis 'Chidunga Rocks', and Copadichromis verduyni 'Chidunga Rocks'.
Behavior and Temperament
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Temperament: Mildly aggressive.
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Social Behavior: Best kept with other peacocks and similarly tempered Lake Malawi 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, rock caves, open swimming space, and sight breaks to reduce male pressure.
Diet and Feeding
Breeding
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Breeding Type: Maternal mouthbrooder.
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Breeding Notes: Males display to females and may defend rocky 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.
