Sponge Filters: When Should You Prefer Them? Parrot Cichlids. Having said that, you’ll also want to make sure your peacock companions will survive in the same water as your cichlid given that they have somewhat unique aquarium water requirements. These fish are a tame member of the cichlid family and will do fine with other non-aggressive fish. There are eight fish that are best suited as tankmates – but this isn’t true all the time, however. However, not every Lake Malawi cichlid will be compatible with the peacock cichlid in terms of temperament.eval(ez_write_tag([[468,60],'cichlidguide_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_5',130,'0','0'])); One manner in which you can ensure compatibility in your African peacock cichlid tank is to house peacock cichlids with other peacock cichlid tank mates. It can be difficult to prevent in tanks with multiple species if the fish aren’t all females. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Particular Lake Malawi residents, which are more active or a little more on the aggressive side, should be avoided, including Labeotropheus, Mbuna, Petrotilapia, and Pseudotropheus.eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'cichlidguide_com-leader-2','ezslot_15',133,'0','0'])); There are exceptions to every rule, however, as every genus has a few species that are more docile than the rest. Though housing other bottom dwellers may be fine in large aquariums, it’s best avoided. Below you’ll find our African cichlid tank mates along with a great cichlid care guide. In addition to weekly water changes, the sand substrate should be regularly combed. If the water parameters waver, you may experience an increase in tension among tank mates, including your African peacock cichlid. Cichlids may appreciate live plants, but otherwise, silk plants or a hardscape will work fine. For this reason, a lot of people will prefer to put other species that are also native to Lake Malawi and can withstand the conditions of the natural habitat. 11 Perfectly Quiet Wave Makers for Great Water Flow, Reverse Osmosis Deionization: 5 Top Rated Filtration Units, 7 Top Rated Reef Tanks for your next Tropical Environment, Natural pH Control in a Freshwater Aquarium: a Practical Beginners Guide, Choosing the Perfect Liner for your Pond & Water Garden, LED Aquarium Lighting: 11 Great Fixtures for Freshwater, Planted and Reef Tanks. Though peacocks are not recommended for beginner fish keepers, they are an excellent choice for beginner cichlid keepers. You can help to prevent or alleviate aggressive behavior by the many tank mates in your aquarium by creating many different territories in your tank using decorations. Peacock Cichlid Tank Setting and Care If the owner is lucky, he could get the wild cichlid, the one that is caught in Lake Malawi directly. Fishtankadvisor.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. The electric yellow African is a small fish and much less aggressive than other cichlids. Each of these genera are especially popular among aquarists for being relatively peaceful in captivity. They prefer sandy areas in the lake bed and can often be seen hunting invertebrates there. The Venustus can get aggressive. It would help if you were looking for fish species that are either capable of standing up to any aggressive behavior from the cichlids in your tank or that can hide when they need to. Female cichlids get along well and can be kept together, but males will become territorial. These cichlids are rewarding fish that offer beautiful colors and striking behaviors. However, they don’t just favor the deep blues and greens found in peacocks. Hybrids are also tricky to identify in the aquarium trade. eval(ez_write_tag([[580,400],'cichlidguide_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_9',134,'0','0']));• Plecostomus: The Plecostomus is a common companion in a Peacock cichlid tank because it will help keep the tank clean, but because it is a bottom feeder, it will stay out of everyone’s way. We need to set up a 60 female network tank with an assortment of cichlids. The fish is … It’s best to house peacock cichlids with other fish that are peaceful and active. Experienced aquarists also appreciate them for their captivating behavior and laidback temperament in community tanks. Peacock cichlids need a minimum of 55 gallons. Jewel Cichlid. If you are particularly interested in keeping multiple African peacock cichlid tank mates, it would be wise to select females entirely unless you are particularly interested in breeding. Try to add many different plants and hiding places for your fish. Peacock Cichlid Tankmates When choosing tank mates for the Peacock Cichlids, it is important to keep the water conditions in mind and select a species that can withstand them. Levels are close to 0 ppm are preferred, but not always possible. Yellow Peacock Cichlids do best in Lake Malawi biotope aquariums, which contain a sand substrate, large rock piles, rocky caves and some scattered hard water tolerant plants. Cichlid Guide is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. Generally speaking, 100 gallons of tank space is adequate for a community of six peacock cichlids. Keeping them with other African fish usually creates reliable results. Cichlids should be fed at least once per day, with multiple feedings depending on the volume of the meals. Let’s start with a few African Cichlid Tank Mates. Whatever color you can name or think of, it’s sure to be featured on a peacock cichlid. Hardness: peacocks prefer water that’s 4 – 6 dH. However, to prevent creating more hybrids, it’s wise not to keep multiple species of peacock cichlids together. Choosing aulonocara peacock cichlid species for a mixed tank aulonocara rubenscens red peacock cichlid male and female. They may harass other males, females, or other tank mates. A Silent & Reliable Canister Filter: Which Brand to Trust? So if your cichlids consistently engage in breeding behavior, but no fertilized eggs or fry are produced, it’s likely at least one of your cichlids is a hybrid. They’re popular amongst beginner cichlid keepers and experienced keepers who favor community tanks. For instance, mbuna and peacock cichlids will do well together since they both come from Lake Malawi in … The content of this website is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical advice. The ideal water temp for African cichlids is a fairly flexible range between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It is important that you consider water conditions and temperament when considering compatibility in your Peacock cichlid tank mates to achieve the best results. There are tons of varieties to choose from, they boast beautiful colors, and they are more peaceful than many other cichlid species. The Electric Yellow Cichlid’s body has a bright, well, electric yellow colour. They are relatively docile, easy to keep, and very hardy. These cichlids are very hardy. This makes it easier to look after and is more accepting of other fish that you add to your tank. pH Range: a pH range of anywhere between 7.5 – 8.5 is acceptable. And each variety is just as colorful as the last! Despite their hardy nature, peacock cichlids do have preferred water parameters that aquarists should adhere to. • Botia Loaches: The Botia Loach is a typical recommendation as a tank mate for the African peacock cichlid. However, there are easy ways to curb these behaviors and precautions to prevent your peacock cichlids from becoming distressed. Your peacock cichlid probably will not bother the plecostomus at all. You should not keep cichlids in an aquarium with peacock eels. Cichlids will readily explore them and use them to stake out different territories. Preferably, only one male should be in the tank. With their … If you have kept cichlids before, you will find it easy to raise a parrot fish. Have you become fascinated with the African peacock cichlid? Strawberry peacocks are certainly fish that you should know about. Community aquariums with these fish are sure to be a stunning sight. Malawi lake houses many different ecosystems, and the animals within it have had years to evolve and breed. The African peacock cichlid is an easy tank mate to keep because it is peaceful and easygoing. It will keep your cichlids healthy and in a more peaceful mood. Weekly water changes are recommended to prevent ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates from getting above two ppm. Keeping different types of Cichlids together will be beneficial for both the water and the plant life inside the aquarium.. You may want to use natural breaks and plants to separate the Cichlids and you should ensure that water flow in the aquarium is slow, to help the Cichlids adjust. Such pockets can create water imbalances when finally popped and released into the tank, depending on how big the pocket was. Lake Malawi cichlids require alkaline water with a balanced pH. Peacock cichlids may not be the easiest fish to keep due to their gallon and community tank requirements. If you would like to enjoy the multiple colours and differing behaviours of peacock cichlids in a mixed species tank, you will have to … Instead, this fish features colors from every spectrum. Breeders and aquarists alike seek to produce the most vibrant colors, which may appear similar to one of the true 22 varieties. They are bottom dwellers, though they don’t inhabit the deepest parts of Lake Malawi. But deciding on a peacock isn’t the hard part— that comes when you have to pick between over a dozen gorgeous varieties! However, peacocks are surprisingly docile. Also, remember that more space for your tank mates is better, especially when mixing male and female Malawi cichlids. The fish you choose as peacock cichlid tank mates need to be able to survive in the same water conditions as your African peacock cichlids in addition to standing up to any territorial behavior from any more aggressive cichlids in your tank. Because of the depths, peacock cichlids inhabit in the wild, plants are more sparse and so are unnecessary in home aquariums. Because you will likely already have plenty of hiding spots for your Peacock Cichlids, this will be an ideal environment. These fish may be territorial (especially males of the species), but they are generally not aggressive. Sciaenochromis – Sciaenochromis is a genus consisting of only four recognized species. They are aggressive and can harm or kill the other fish of the same species if threatened. Peacock cichlids are classified as semi-aggressive because males can exhibit territorial behavior. Consequently, good peacock cichlid tank mates are mostly big fish that can cope with a cichlid’s aggression, and won’t get snacked-on. Remember to always ask a veterinarian for help regarding all of your pets. The jewel cichlid originates from Africa – the muddy rivers in central Africa. While an assortment of enormous, sound cichlids can undoubtedly go seven to 10 days without fish food, an aquarium loaded with infant fish should be taken care of following a day or two. That aggression is the most problematic issue regarding cichlids' compatibility with other fish. Peacock Cichlid Tank Mates I currently have a group of peacocks, 3 Jeweled Cichlids, and one very large Chinese Algae-eater (he's 7 or 8 inches long) in a 36 gallon tank. Stress from mixing peacocks, mbuna, and Tanganykians in a tank too small for the peacocks alone. This should be plenty to allow you to make them comfortable and also accommodate their tank mates. Electric Yellow Cichlid. When it comes to adding non-cichlid tank mates to your peacock cichlid tank, your consideration will need to be about water compatibility as well as territoriality. Electric Blue Cichlid/Electric Blue Hap (Sciaenochromis fryeri) Difficulty: Easy. Botia loaches are common tank mates for Peacock Cichlids. These fish can take a decent current, so almost. It’s made even more impressive by the fact that there are at least 22 different species of peacock cichlids currently known. African Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara nyassae) 22 species of peacock cichlids … Not all species are available commercially, but many are sold in stores around the world. Its stunning coloration makes it a fan favorite, and its entertaining personality also does not hurt! Another consideration is to avoid other bottom dwellers so that these cichlids don’t have to share their space. A varied diet that heavily features meaty food is recommended. They can be found peacefully living with many other types of fish. Also, remember that more space for your tank mates is better, especially when mixi… Mbuna Tank Mates. Being bottom feeders, you can rest … It prevents pockets of gas or debris from building up beneath the surface. This is made easier by their willingness to do so, unlike some freshwater fish. This will keep your cichlid in top shape and preserve its vibrant coloring. Are you looking for the most compatible peacock cichlid tank mates? Both experienced aquarists and beginner cichlid keepers can enjoy caring for peacock cichlids. You may need to try a few different kinds, rehoming the ones that don’t work out. Due to the aggressive nature of these fish, there are specific types of tankmates that should be avoided. They are even easy to breed, which is a notable feat for freshwater fish species. When considering adding additional Peacock cichlid tank mates from one of these species, make sure to consider their individual feeding requirements. If you want bright color and high activity in a 55 keep the electric yellows and swap out the rest for a group of 12-15 demasoni. It can be difficult to prevent in tanks with multiple species if the fish aren’t all … The African peacock is a Lake Malawi cichlid, and they tend to prefer alkaline water with a stable pH level. Peacock cichlid Tank mates You actually have a lot of choices when it comes to choosing peacock cichlid tank mates. It’s not recommended to keep multiple varieties of peacock cichlids together. Many African cichlids are aggressive toward other fish in their native habitat and captivity. Many cichlid-keepers tend to choose tank mates that are from Lake Malawi because they naturally prefer the same water parameters. You should not keep a large number of eels in one tank. Temperament: Semi … There are … Unfortunately, many hybrids are sterile despite their otherwise healthy appearance and body. The red tail shark is another popular tank mate. Peacocks are no different, and most of the species can be found within this lake. Compared to other Lake Malawi cichlids, Peacock cichlids are relatively peaceful. Male peacock cichlids can be slightly territorial but should do fine with other fish as long as you give them enough living space and plenty of caves in which to hide to reduce their territorial behavior. It is still important to determine what tankmates are compatible with African peacock cichlids to create a peaceful and amiable tank. Emperor Peacocks (also called Blue Peacocks), Red Peacocks (also called Grant’s Peacock), Filtration: Because they require large tanks, more filtration is always better than less. Below is a basic rundown of what you’ll need for a cichlid tank: Another décor such as caves, terra cotta pots, and similar aquarium-safe hiding places can also be added. … Plecos are a perfect tank mate to your African Cichlids. Some foods that you can feed the peacock cichlids include: These cichlids will accept live, frozen, and freeze-dried foods. This is said to be one of their most unusual and stunning behaviors to watch, both in the wild and in home aquariums. As such, they don’t need any specialized equipment. You can help to prevent or alleviate aggressive behavior by the many tank mates in your aquarium by creating many different territories in your tank using decorations. Guide to Cichlid Salts and Water Chemistry, Flowerhorn Care Guide & A Closer Look at These Amazing Cichlids. • Red Tail Shark: As above, if sufficient hiding places are provided, this semi-aggressive fish can get along well in a peacock cichlid tank. An ideal tank mate would be large and active fish. Keeping cichlids from the same region together is also recommended. Inter-species breeding is relatively common. Though they get along, this can cause breeding issues later on (covered more in-depth later on). Don’t be afraid to ask at your local fish specialist regarding compatible Peacock cichlid tank mates, as sometimes you will not know about a potential compatible tank mate until it is suggested to you by a more seasoned expert. When you put time and thought into selecting your African Peacock cichlid tank mates, that is when you can ensure the success of your aquarium for a long time. You may put a fish in, only to discover your cichlids hate and bully them. Some compatible tank mate species that peacocks are often housed with include: Many keepers have also reported success with adding snails to the aquarium. Either way, hobbyists get to enjoy beautiful fish with striking appearances and fascinating behaviors. This is due to peacock cichlids having rather unique water parameter requirements, so you will also need to make sure that any tank mates you add have similar water requirements as well. Inter-species breeding is relatively common. Other aggressive fish will cause peacock cichlids to respond sharply, which should be avoided. Fishtankadvisor.com does not intend to provide any kind of veterinary suggestion. On the whole, these are one of the most peaceful varieties of cichlids. Just as there are some genus and species which are particularly well suited as compatible tank mates for African peacock cichlids, there are also some tank mates which should be avoided. As mentioned earlier, Malawi Peacocks are medium sized Cichlids, growing up to anywhere between 4-6 inches. They are semi-aggressive but they like to hide. They are aggressive, move very quickly, and can cause serious injury. African cichlids are colorful, hardy and very aggressive freshwater fish. Not only are “Haps” endemic to Lake Malawi, meaning that they are compatible tank mates with the peacock cichlid in terms of water requirements, but several species are particularly docile and peaceful. Lake Malawi is over 2,300 ft. deep, but peacock cichlids usually prefer areas roughly 100 – 130 ft. They are usually peaceful when kept in the right conditions. All are from the genus Aulonocara, and popular with aquarists because of the bright colors that males display, which is also their characteristic that helped them get the name of Peacock Cichlid. Peacock cichlids (Aulonocara) are a very colorful fish, as their name may indicate. Because cichlids are mostly aggressive, they are generally not community fish and only do best in species tanks. For community tanks, the gallon size should be at least doubled. If you’re looking for a stunning cichlid for a species-only tank or as an addition to a current tank, look no farther than the peacock cichlid. Peacock cichlids are omnivores that will eat just about anything. The males of certain species can be territorial if there is not a sufficient enough ratio between male and female fish. Peacock cichlid tank mates come in many forms, including other species from Lake Malawi, and other non-cichlid varieties of fish. However, they are one of the easiest cichlids to keep. Peacock cichlids have long been favored in the aquarium industry, and it’s easy to understand why. African Cichlid Tank Mates If you are keeping Cichlids for the first time, I will suggest you go with one in the beginning. With over 20 varieties commercially available, peacock cichlids are an aquarium staple that is sure to last for years to come. African peacock cichlids are not only one of the most brightly colored and beautiful members of the cichlid family, but they are also regarded as one of the more friendly and peaceful. If you want to keep them with others, then make sure they share the … Male African peacock cichlids are particularly territorial tank mates, and so it is crucial to provide them with sufficient space to prevent any issues in your tank. Peacock cichlids can be kept together as tank mates; however, the best way to keep them together is to maintain a ratio that is four (4) female peacock cichlids to each one (1) male peacock cichlid to create schools within the aquarium. Peacock cichlids can be bred with members of their own species or with other species, creating hybrids. Despite the docile nature of the African peacock, not every fish is going to be a compatible tank mate. Try to add many different plants and hiding places for your fish. Adding different Cichlids to your tank will brighten it up and keep the fish happy. Some of the more popular types of peacock cichlids include: Depending on the variety and gender, your cichlid will grow to roughly 4 – 6”. Peacock cichlids are originally from Lake Malawi, the southernmost lake in the East African Rift. Without plants providing extra natural filtration, aquarists may need to invest in higher quality filtration systems to have a more strict cleaning regime. It is the fourth largest lake by volume globally and is close to 10 million years old. Their lifespan is usually between 7-12 years depending on their treatment. Keep stress to a minimum by keeping your water parameters as perfect as you can. Four examples of the gentler species of Haplochromis that would make compatible tank mates with the African peacock cichlid include:eval(ez_write_tag([[336,280],'cichlidguide_com-leader-1','ezslot_8',127,'0','0'])); Copadichromis – Copadichromis is a genus consisting of 25 recognized species. What fish go well with cichlids? Indeed, the peacock cichlid has a feature to appeal to every aquarist. However, species-only tanks are just as colorful. Peacock cichlids can be kept in the same tank with other cichlids as well as other peaceful community species.Compared to other Lake Malawi cichlids, Peacock cichlids are relatively peaceful. Blanched vegetables can also be offered occasionally, such as spinach and lettuce. You actually have a lot of options when it comes to choosing peacock cichlid tank mates. Placidochromis – Placidochromis is a genus consisting of 43 recognized species. African Cichlid Tank Mates. Because of their popularity and beauty, peacock cichlids are commonly bred in captivity. Its stunning coloration makes it a fan favorite, and its entertaining personality also does not hurt! For more information, please check our, Other aggressive fish will cause peacock cichlids to respond sharply, It’s not recommended to keep multiple varieties of peacock cichlids together, Freshwater & Brackish Puffers: How to Properly Keep them in Your Tank, How to Properly Care for Celestial Pearl Danios, Blackwater Aquariums: How to Setup a Biotope Tank. Pelvicachromis pulcher (African) At three to four inches when fully grown, this fish is also classified … Dec 19, 2016 - Lake Malawi Peacock Cichlids include some of the most popular species of African cichlids found in the hobby today. Venustus Cichlid Tank Mates. Some of the most popular varieties of the African peacock cichlid that aquarists favor include: The Haplochromis genus includes more than 200 recognizes species, several of which are particularly well suited to be housed with the African peacock cichlid. High-quality fish flakes and pellets will also be readily accepted, but they should not comprise a significant part of the diet. Shy fish may become more withdrawn due to the high activity level of peacocks. I knew it was small for them, but started them in that tank till I could get a bigger one. Though, it’s best to make sure these foods sink quickly since peacocks are bottom dwellers and tend to stay in the lower and middle water columns. The African peacock cichlid is an easy tank mate to keep because it is peaceful and easygoing. These fish are tame members of the cichlid family and will do well with other non-aggressive fish. Plecos. The African peacock cichlid is a stunning and beautiful addition to any aquarium, provided you choose compatible tank mates. Temperature: these cichlids like water that’s between 76-82°F. These loaches are semi-aggressive, but they like to hide when sufficient hiding places are provided. Bundles of Joy – Could Your Guppy be Pregnant? Otherwise, problems amongst your tank mates can be disastrous!eval(ez_write_tag([[468,60],'cichlidguide_com-box-3','ezslot_10',105,'0','0'])); When choosing tank mates for your peacock cichlid, compatibility should not be your only consideration. These active fish needs lots of surface area to explore and open space for swimming. For example, although Mbuna are generally more aggressive than Haps, the Rusty Cichlid, Lodotropheus Sprengerae, which is a Mbuna, is regarded as a docile species that is likely to be bullied by more aggressive tank mates including the peacock cichlid. It is quite easy to notice the difference: the fish will be aggressive, especially when the tank is too small and allows only limited area to explore. Because of their popularity and beauty, peacock cichlids are commonly bred in captivity. Breeding African peacock cichlids can be difficult due to the territorial nature of the males, which causes them to be solitary and less compatible.eval(ez_write_tag([[580,400],'cichlidguide_com-banner-1','ezslot_11',131,'0','0'])); Another consideration that you can make is that there are many different species of African peacock cichlids, so you can experiment with different species to mix varieties and colorations. The Tangs, particularly the frontosa, and peacocks aren't suitable to mix with mbuna. Obviously, you can’t prevent this in the industry at large and can’t do much if you already have a hybrid fish. This cichlid lives an average of eight years, longer than many freshwater fish but shorter than some other cichlid varieties. This is made easier by their willingness to do so, unlike some freshwater fish. There are thousands of species of African cichlids and they are all territorial. You’ll learn about all the different types of African cichlids, the best tank mates, their behavior, lifespan, breeding, and how to set up the perfect tank. It is important to note that Sciaenochromis are piscivorous and eat the fry of other fish species, including the peacock cichlid. Strawberry Peacock. Nyassachromis – Nyassachromis is a genus consisting of 8 recognized species. Peacock cichlids can be bred with members of their own species or with other species, creating hybrids.