Family: Cichlidae
Distribution: Aulonocara rostratum cichlids are distributed in Lake Malawi, Africa. They have been known around Karonga, Vua, and Monkey Bay.
PH: 7.5 – 8.5
Temperature: 24 – 26°C (75 – 79°F)
Hardness: 5 – 30 dH
Description: Reaching up to 18 cm in length, Aulonocara rostratum has the honour of being the largest Aulonocara. It has a pointed snout which separates it from its Peacock relatives. The adult male has a light blue throughout its head, fins and body. There are some yellow speckles visible on its fins and small egg spots on the anal fin. Females are simply a silver colour.
Diet: The Longnose Aulonocara is a carnivore and will enjoy a diet of flake or pellet food, supplemented with frozen brine, mysis or krill. In nature, this species feeds specifically on sand-dwelling invertebrates.
Breeding: Female Longnose Aulonocaras are mouthbrooders and should not be stressed during this period of incubation. Any severe stress to the female may result in her eating the eggs. There is not a great deal of other information available on this species’ breeding habits, so it is best left to experienced hobbyists.
Comments: Your aquarium – large in size – should also contain rock work and plenty of swimming space along the bottom and mid-tank sections. This is not a fish for beginners.
Article/Books:
Recommended Compatible Species: The Longnose Aulonocara suits other Peacock species, but avoid housing this species with Mbuna cichlids. The Mbuna is far too aggressive and will definitely clash with Aulonocara rostratum.
Originally posted 2009-12-15 09:56:30. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
