|
|
Jacobfreibergi, Lake Malawi Butterfly Cichlid
Aulonocara jacobfreibergi
An elongated cichlid whose body shape is similar to that of other
Peacock Cichlids. Several different color variations are known, although
only one is common in the hobby. A dark, indigo blue color extends
along the lower jaw and to the rear part of the body. The forehead and
the upper back is reddish-brown in color. Nine to ten faint, but dark,
horizontal stripes are located on the body. The first starts just behind the
gill cover, and the last ends at the base of the tail. The dorsal and caudal
fins are iridescent blue and the pectoral fin is transparent. The anal fin is
red and black with an electric blue trim. The first ray of the pelvic fins is
also an electric blue color.
This peacock grows to 5" (13 cm) and comes from the rocky and sandy
areas of Lake Malawi in East Africa. They inhabit the bottom and
middle areas of the tank which should be no less than 40 gallons (150
L). Set-up the tank as one would for other peacock cichlids. Their water
parameters should be pH 7.5-8.8 (8.2), 10-25 dH (15), with
temperatures of 77-84¡F (25-29¡C)
These fish are a peaceful fish that can be combined in a community tank
containing other robust fish. I personally own and raise these fish and
they are a delight to keep. Keep one male with several females. The
Lake Malawi Butterfly Cichlid has similar behavior to other Peacocks.
They do well on foods such as bloodworms, mosquito larvae,
crustaceans, snails, Tubifex; pellets; tablets and their favorite, baby brine
shrimp. Make sure they are fed a varied diet.
The females are pale, brown with visible bars while males are more
colorful-usually dark indigo blue.
They are an easy cichlid to breed. For more information on breeding
these cichlids see the Baensch’s Peacock article. One note of caution,
keep plenty of rock work as the male tends to be a bit more aggressive
during spawning season.
