Family: Cichlidae
Distribution: Aulonocara nyassae, commonly known as Emperor Cichlid, is distributed throughout Lake Malawi, Africa.
PH: 7.5 – 8.5
Temperature: 22 – 25°C (72 – 77°F)
Hardness: 10 – 25 dGH
Description: Aulonocara nyassae cichlids will grow up to 8 cm in an aquarium environment. This Malawian species has a dark blue body with a lighter-coloured dorsal fin; females are plain in comparison. You can expect the Emperor Cichlid to live anywhere from 5 – 8 years.
Diet: Aulonocara nyassae cichlids are carnivorous creatures. They will appreciate plenty of live and frozen foods. Some examples may include shrimp, bloodworms, fish pellets and a good quality flake.
Breeding: The female Emperor Cichlid is a mouthbrooder and lays her eggs on the substrate before placing them in her mouth. The male fertilises the eggs while in they are in the female’s mouth. The female will hold the eggs for 3 – 4 weeks before releasing the youngsters.
Comments: This species will need plenty of rock work for hiding places. The water should also be changed regularly to promote effective breeding. To emulate its natural environment, you should provide it with sand or a substrate. A 100 litre tank could hold several Aulonocara nyassae cichlids.
Article/Books:
Recommended Compatible Species: Copadichromis and Placidochromis species of a different colour and pattern will make good tank mates. Make sure you keep one male to a group of females. Generally speaking, this is one of the more peaceful Malawian cichlids.
Originally posted 2009-11-06 21:17:48. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
Comments on this entry are closed.