Ethelwynnae Aulonocara

Ethelwynnae Aulonocara

Aulonocara ethelwynnae

Ethelwynnae Aulonocara is a more passive Lake Malawi peacock with a manageable adult size. It is best kept with calmer peacocks and haps in a stable hard-water aquarium where it will not be bullied by highly aggressive tank mates.

Origin and Habitat

• Native Region: Lake Malawi.
• Natural Habitat: Rocky areas with sand substrate, where wild fish feed on bottom-dwelling invertebrates.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: 6-7 inches.
• Coloration: Mature males develop the strongest display color; females and juveniles are usually more subdued.
• Body Shape: Medium peacock body with a laterally compressed profile.

Behavior and Temperament

• Temperament: Passive to peaceful for a Malawi peacock.
• Social Behavior: Best kept with calmer Lake Malawi peacocks and peaceful haps.

Aquarium Care

• Tank Size: A 55 gallon aquarium or larger is recommended.
• Water Parameters: 74-84°F, pH 7.4-8.4, hard water.
• Tank Setup: Provide sand, open swimming room, rockwork for cover and sight breaks, and reliable filtration.

Diet and Feeding

• Primary Staple: Feed a quality daily diet such as Ron’s Peacock & Hap Adult Food.
• Juveniles: Growing fish can be fed Ron’s Juvenile Food.
• Fry: Newly released fry should be started on Ron’s Fry Food.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed 1–2 small meals daily and avoid overfeeding.

Breeding

• Breeding Type: Maternal mouthbrooder.
• Breeding Notes: Males display to females. Females hold eggs and fry in the mouth, and fry should be protected after release.

Tank Mates

• Compatible With: Calmer Lake Malawi peacocks and peaceful haps.
• Avoid: Very aggressive mbuna, large predators, and dominant haps that may outcompete it.

Conservation Status

Wild populations of Aulonocara ethelwynnae are listed by CARES and the IUCN Red List as Near Threatened. Ron’s Cichlids promotes sustainability by captive breeding this species for the aquarium trade, helping reduce pressure on wild-caught specimens.