Aulonocara Chilumba
Aulonocara stuartgranti "Chilumba"
Aulonocara Chilumba is a Lake Malawi peacock with strong mature male color and the calmer, display-focused temperament that makes Aulonocara popular. It fits well in peacock and hap aquariums with sand, rock cover, and stable hard water.
Origin and Habitat
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Native Region: Chilumba area, Lake Malawi.
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Natural Habitat: Intermediate zones where sand and rock structure meet.
Physical Characteristics
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Size: 6-7 inches.
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Coloration: Dimorphic; mature males show the strongest color while females and juveniles are more subdued.
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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 calmer haps of similar size.
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 space, rockwork for shelter, broken sightlines, and dependable filtration.
Diet and Feeding
Breeding
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Breeding Type: Maternal mouthbrooder.
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Breeding Notes: Males display near preferred areas and females hold eggs and fry in the mouth.
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 soft-water community fish.
