Scientific name: Aulonocara

Common name: Albino Dragonblood cichlid

Family: Cichlidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 8 - 10 cm (3.15 - 3.94 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 7 - 8.5

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 9 - 18°N (160.71 - 321.43ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 22 - 27 °C (71.6 - 80.6°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: Africa

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: aggressive to smaller

Usual place in the tank: Middle levels

Food and feeding

Firebird cichlids will accept all foods offered, the use of a quality pellet is ideal along with regular feeds of spirulina flake. They can also be given treats of brine shrimp and blood worms.

Origin

Africa; Firebird cichlids are endemic to Lake Malawi.

Sexing

Even as juveniles, the males will be brightly coloured. The females will remain a greyish colour all of their life.

Breeding

Typical of Malawi cichlids, these fish are mouth brooders. Once the eggs are laid on a stone and fertilised, the female will take them into her mouth for brooding. This can take up to 4 weeks and during this time, she may hide away and will not eat. When the fry are released, they should accept most of the foods that are given to the parent fish.

Lifespan

The expected life span for Aulonocara hansbaenschi is 12 years.

Short description

Add plenty of rockwork to the tank so that territories can be established and hiding places will also be provided. Always leave open swimming spaces at the front of the tank and keep the water alkaline.Firebird cichlid is also known as Aulonocara Fort Maguire and Peacock cichlid.