The OB Sulfur Head Peacock Cichlid is a captivating hybrid variant of the Aulonocara maylandi, commonly known as the Sulfurhead Peacock. This hybrid is distinguished by its vibrant coloration and the distinctive "sulfur" yellow blaze that extends from the snout along the dorsal fin.

Origin and Classification:

• Species: Aulonocara maylandi
• Common Name: Sulfurhead Peacock
• Hybrid Variant: OB (Orange Blotch) Sulfur Head Peacock

Physical Characteristics:

• Size: Males typically reach up to 5 inches (12.7 cm) in length, while females are slightly smaller.
• Coloration: Males exhibit a dark gray to black body complemented by a bright yellow stripe running from the face along the dorsal fin. The OB variant introduces irregular blotches of orange and blue, enhancing their visual appeal. Females are generally less colorful, displaying more subdued tones.

Natural Habitat:

The original Aulonocara maylandi is endemic to Lake Malawi, specifically around West Reef and Eccles Reef near Makanjila Point. They inhabit mixed sand and rocky areas, where they feed on small invertebrates found within the sand.

Aquarium Care:

• Tank Size: A minimum of 55 gallons is recommended to accommodate their active nature and territorial behavior.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 74–84°F (23–29°C)
  • pH: 7.4–8.4
  • Hardness: Hard
• Diet: As omnivores, they thrive on a varied diet that includes high-quality cichlid pellets, live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, and occasional vegetable matter.

Behavior and Compatibility:

OB Sulfur Head Peacocks are relatively peaceful but can exhibit mild aggression, especially towards conspecifics. They are best kept with other peacocks and haps of similar size and temperament. It's advisable to avoid housing them with more aggressive Mbuna species to prevent stress and potential conflicts.

Breeding:

These cichlids are maternal mouthbrooders. Males establish territories and display vibrant colors to attract females. After spawning, females carry the fertilized eggs in their mouths for about three weeks until the fry are ready to swim freely.

Special Considerations:

The OB Sulfur Head Peacock is a hybrid, resulting from selective breeding to enhance specific color patterns. While hybrids can exhibit unique and desirable traits, it's essential to source them from reputable breeders to ensure genetic health and authenticity.

Incorporating the OB Sulfur Head Peacock into your aquarium can add a dynamic and colorful presence, enhancing the overall aesthetic and diversity of your aquatic community.

The OB Sulfur Head Peacock Cichlid is a captivating hybrid variant of the Aulonocara maylandi, commonly known as the Sulfurhead Peacock. This hybrid is distinguished by its vibrant coloration and the distinctive "sulfur" yellow blaze that extends from the snout along the dorsal fin.

Origin and Classification:

• Species: Aulonocara maylandi
• Common Name: Sulfurhead Peacock
• Hybrid Variant: OB (Orange Blotch) Sulfur Head Peacock

Physical Characteristics:

• Size: Males typically reach up to 5 inches (12.7 cm) in length, while females are slightly smaller.
• Coloration: Males exhibit a dark gray to black body complemented by a bright yellow stripe running from the face along the dorsal fin. The OB variant introduces irregular blotches of orange and blue, enhancing their visual appeal. Females are generally less colorful, displaying more subdued tones.

Natural Habitat:

The original Aulonocara maylandi is endemic to Lake Malawi, specifically around West Reef and Eccles Reef near Makanjila Point. They inhabit mixed sand and rocky areas, where they feed on small invertebrates found within the sand.

Aquarium Care:

• Tank Size: A minimum of 55 gallons is recommended to accommodate their active nature and territorial behavior.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 74–84°F (23–29°C)
  • pH: 7.4–8.4
  • Hardness: Hard
• Diet: As omnivores, they thrive on a varied diet that includes high-quality cichlid pellets, live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, and occasional vegetable matter.

Behavior and Compatibility:

OB Sulfur Head Peacocks are relatively peaceful but can exhibit mild aggression, especially towards conspecifics. They are best kept with other peacocks and haps of similar size and temperament. It's advisable to avoid housing them with more aggressive Mbuna species to prevent stress and potential conflicts.

Breeding:

These cichlids are maternal mouthbrooders. Males establish territories and display vibrant colors to attract females. After spawning, females carry the fertilized eggs in their mouths for about three weeks until the fry are ready to swim freely.

Special Considerations:

The OB Sulfur Head Peacock is a hybrid, resulting from selective breeding to enhance specific color patterns. While hybrids can exhibit unique and desirable traits, it's essential to source them from reputable breeders to ensure genetic health and authenticity.

Incorporating the OB Sulfur Head Peacock into your aquarium can add a dynamic and colorful presence, enhancing the overall aesthetic and diversity of your aquatic community.