Jacobfreibergi Peacock Cichlid - 4"

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Aulonocara nyassae
• Common Name: Jacobfreibergi Peacock Cichlid, “Jacob”
• Adult Size: 4–6 inches (10–15 cm), males typically larger and more colorful
• Life Expectancy: 6–10 years
• Habitat: Endemic to Lake Malawi, Africa; inhabits rocky shoreline zones and sandy substrates in clear, oxygen-rich water

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 55 gallons for a single male and harem; larger if keeping multiple males or mixed species
• Ideal Temperature: 76–82°F (24–28°C)
• pH Range: 7.8–8.6
• Water Hardness: 10–20 dGH
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive; territorial, especially males during breeding; best kept with other Malawi cichlids or species of similar temperament and water needs

Diet & Nutrition

• Omnivorous: Yes
  • Eats a mix of protein-rich and plant-based foods
  • Best diet includes high-quality cichlid pellets, spirulina flakes, brine shrimp, krill, and occasional vegetable matter (like blanched spinach or peas)
  • Avoid overfeeding high-protein foods to prevent bloat, a common issue in African cichlids

Appearance

• Males are highly colorful with variations of electric blue, orange, red, and yellow depending on locality and morph
• Females are typically duller, usually silver or grey with faint markings
• Elongated body with pointed dorsal and anal fins

Distinctive Features

• Known for their vivid, shimmering coloration and bold personality
• Exhibits typical "peacock" cichlid body shape with a sleek profile and ornate fin extensions in males
• Males develop most intense coloration when dominant or breeding
• Mouthbrooders: females carry eggs and fry in their mouths until ready to release