Aulonocara Koningsi Mbenji
Aulonocara koningsi
Aulonocara Koningsi Mbenji, often sold as Mbenji Blue Regal, is a Lake Malawi peacock with strong mature male color and classic Aulonocara display behavior. It is a good fit for peacock and hap tanks where fish have open space and stable hard water.
Physical Characteristics
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Size: 6-7 inches.
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Coloration: Mature males develop the strongest blue regal color; females and juveniles are more subdued.
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Body Shape: Medium peacock body with a laterally compressed profile.
Origin and Habitat
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Native Region: Mbenji Island is in southern Lake Malawi on the Malawi-side western shore, close to Kampambe Island, Ababi Island, and Penga Penga Island.
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Natural Habitat: Intermediate habitat between sand and rocks. Most commonly found over sand with nearby rocky structures.
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Distribution: Endemic to Lake Malawi.
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Same-Locality Cichlids: Other cichlids recorded from Mbenji Island include Abactochromis labrosus 'Mbenji Island', Astatotilapia calliptera 'Mbenji Island', Cheilochromis euchilus 'Mbenji Island', and Chindongo sp. 'aggressive zebra mbenji' Mbenji Island.
Behavior and Temperament
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Temperament: Mildly aggressive.
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Social Behavior: Best kept 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: Use sand, open swimming lanes, rockwork for shelter and sight breaks, and dependable filtration.
Diet and Feeding
Breeding
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Breeding Type: Maternal mouthbrooder.
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Breeding Notes: Males display and may defend a preferred area. Females mouthbrood eggs and fry, and fry should be protected after release.
Tank Mates
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Compatible With: Lake Malawi peacocks and calmer haps of similar size.
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Avoid: Very aggressive mbuna, large predators, and tiny community fish.
