Blue Neon Chiwindi

Blue Neon Chiwindi

Aulonocara stuartgranti

Blue Neon Chiwindi is a Lake Malawi peacock with strong blue display potential and the manageable temperament that makes many Aulonocara popular in peacock and hap aquariums. It does best in stable hard water with sand, open swimming room, and compatible tank mates.

Origin and Habitat

• Native Region: Chiwindi, Malawi.
• Natural Habitat: Intermediate zone.

Physical Characteristics

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

Behavior and Temperament

• Temperament: Mildly aggressive.
• Social Behavior: Best kept with other Lake Malawi peacocks and peaceful to moderately assertive 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 and may claim preferred areas. Females hold eggs and fry in the mouth, and fry should be protected after release.

Tank Mates

• Compatible With: Lake Malawi peacocks and peaceful to moderately assertive haps.
• Avoid: Very aggressive mbuna, large predators, and small soft-water community fish.