Sulphurhead Maylandi
Aulonocara maylandi
Sulphurhead Maylandi, also called the Sulfur Head Peacock, is a more peaceful Lake Malawi peacock with a distinctive yellow head blaze in mature males. It is a strong choice for balanced peacock aquariums with stable hard water and moderate tank mates.
Origin and Habitat
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Native Region: Eccles Reef and West Reef, Lake Malawi.
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Natural Habitat: Sand near rocky reefs, where wild fish search for small sand-dwelling invertebrates.
Physical Characteristics
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Size: Up to about 6 inches.
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Coloration: Dimorphic; mature males develop the strongest sulfur-yellow head coloration, 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: More peaceful, though males may be mildly aggressive with conspecifics.
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Social Behavior: Best kept with other peacocks and peaceful to moderately assertive 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: Use sand, open swimming areas, rockwork for structure and sight breaks, and reliable filtration.
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 preferred 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.
Conservation Status
Wild populations of Aulonocara maylandi are listed by CARES and the IUCN Red List as Critically Endangered. Ron’s Cichlids promotes sustainability by captive breeding this species for the aquarium trade, helping reduce pressure on wild-caught specimens.
