Family: Cichlidae
Distribution: The Aulonocara aquilonium species is distributed at a depth range of 12 – 25 metres in Lake Malawi, Africa, and are found in sandy areas.
PH: 7.5 – 9.0
Temperature: 25°C – 28°C (78°F – 82°F)
Hardness: 10 – 30 dH
Description: Adult males have a distinctive dorsal fin colouration with a black margin and blue stripe. They have a black anal fin which contains large speckled egg spots. The Aulonocara aquilonium has 16 – 17 dorsal fins, 9 – 11 dorsal soft rays, three anal spines and 8 – 9 soft anal rays. They have a peaceful temperament and reach a maximum length of 8.5 cm.
Diet: Aulonocara aquilonium cichlids are carnivores and should be fed live meat where possible.
Breeding: The female Aulonocara aquilonium is a mouthbrooder, which means they hold their eggs in their mouth for an extended period of time. Ensure there are plenty of hiding spaces for the female during spawning. Severe stress can force the females to spit their eggs out prematurely, so avoid moving these fish during this time. Some Aulonocara cichlids have been known to breed with each other, so avoid housing with other cichlids unless you want to encourage interbreeding.
Comments: Make sure there are plenty of hiding spots and open swimming spaces for this species. Given its size, Aulonocara aquilonium should be housed in a medium-sized tank. Make sure you have sand – or an equivalent – in your tank, as this species is found in sandy areas.
Article/Books:
Recommended Compatible Species: Similarly sized fish of a peaceful temperament can be housed with Aulonocara cichlids.
Originally posted 2009-12-15 09:38:58. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
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