Strawberry peacock basics
Peacock cichlids (genus Aulonocara) come from Lake Malawi and are known for the colorful males. “Strawberry peacock” is a trade name for a reddish or orange-toned peacock, often a selectively bred or hybrid line, so the exact genetics and temperament can vary. Peacocks live over sand and open areas near rocks in nature, and they are generally less aggressive than mbuna. They are still territorial, especially the males.
For an overview of the broader group, see our African cichlid care guide.
What makes a good tank mate
Good tank mates for peacocks share several traits:
- They live in hard, alkaline water at similar temperatures.
- They are not much more aggressive than peacocks, and not so small that they are eaten.
- They are not look-alikes of the male, which could trigger fighting.
- They fit the tank size and do not compete aggressively for sand and cave territory.
Good tank mate options
The usual guidance is to look at other Lake Malawi fish that are mild to moderately aggressive. Other peacocks and several haplochromine species (often sold as “haps”) are widely used. Many keepers also add some less-aggressive mbuna, but mixing needs care because mbuna can harass peacocks and may outcompete them for food. Keep males of each species limited, with several females per male, and always include rocky retreats. Ask a knowledgeable seller or experienced keeper about specific species, since behavior varies.
Bottom-dwelling catfish, such as the Synodontis species sometimes kept in Malawi tanks (the cuckoo catfish is one, though it parasitizes mouthbrooder broods), are often mentioned in forums, though outcomes vary by tank size and the fish’s temperament. Treat any such addition as an experiment and keep an eye on it.
Fish to avoid
- Aggressive mbuna: Fast and territorial species can bully peacocks. See our mbuna cichlid care guide for how these fish behave.
- Kribensis: These are West African cichlids that generally prefer softer, less alkaline water than Rift Valley fish, so they are not a natural match, even though they are often described as community-friendly in other contexts.
- Blood parrot cichlids: These are hybrids that are usually kept in different water conditions and have limited mobility compared to Malawi fish. They are generally not suitable tank mates for a Malawi setup.
- Small, delicate fish: Tetras, rasboras, and similar fish need softer, more neutral water and may be eaten or harassed.
Tank size and stocking
Peacocks do best with sand and open swimming areas next to rock structures. A tank of around 55 gallons or larger is commonly recommended for a mixed group, and larger tanks are better for adding more species. Avoid overcrowding, and use strong filtration with regular partial water changes. Do not rely on a single guideline for fish per gallon; adult size, temperament, and tank layout all matter.
Best food for peacock cichlids
Peacocks are generally more carnivorous than mbuna, eating insects and small invertebrates in the wild. A quality pellet or flake designed for carnivorous or insectivorous cichlids is usually a good staple. Frozen foods such as brine shrimp or bloodworms can be offered occasionally. Avoid overfeeding, and use sinking pellets if mbuna tank mates dominate the surface.
Breeding peacocks
Peacocks are maternal mouthbrooders. A male displays and defends a spawning site, often a cleared sand area, and the female holds the eggs in her mouth for a few weeks. Keeping several females per male, giving ample space, and feeding a varied diet generally supports breeding. If you do not want fry, plan accordingly, and check local rules on moving fish. Hybridization is common when closely related peacocks are mixed, so avoid keeping several similar species if you want pure fry.