OB Peacock Cichlid

About the OB Peacock Cichlid

The OB Peacock Cichlid is one of the most colourful African cichlids available, admired for its striking mix of orange, blue, yellow, white, and black blotched patterns. "OB" stands for Orange Blotch, a naturally occurring colour mutation that has been selectively bred into numerous spectacular colour combinations. No two OB Peacock Cichlids are exactly alike, making each fish completely unique.

Originating from Lake Malawi in East Africa, OB Peacock Cichlids are active, intelligent fish that thrive in rocky aquariums with plenty of caves and open swimming areas. Compared to many other African cichlids, they are relatively peaceful but can still become territorial, particularly males during breeding.

They are best kept with other similarly sized Peacock Cichlids and peaceful Haplochromine cichlids in spacious aquariums. Their vibrant colours are enhanced with a varied diet of premium African cichlid pellets, spirulina-based foods, frozen mysis shrimp, krill, and occasional live foods.

With their incredible colouration and engaging personality, the OB Peacock Cichlid makes a spectacular centrepiece for any African cichlid aquarium.

Quick Care Guide

Scientific Name

Aulonocara sp. "OB"

Common Name

OB Peacock Cichlid

Origin

Captive-bred variety originating from Lake Malawi, Africa

Adult Size

12–15 cm

Temperament

Semi-aggressive

Diet

Omnivore

Minimum Tank Size

250 Litres

Temperature

24–28°C

pH

7.8–8.6

Water Hardness

10–25 dGH

Difficulty

Beginner to Intermediate

Lifespan

8–10 Years

Suitable For

Lake Malawi cichlid aquariums

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "OB" mean?

OB stands for Orange Blotch, referring to the unique blotched colour pattern that makes every fish completely different.

Are OB Peacock Cichlids aggressive?

They are moderately aggressive and territorial, especially mature males. They are best kept with other African cichlids of similar size and temperament.

What do OB Peacock Cichlids eat?

They thrive on quality African cichlid pellets, spirulina flakes, frozen mysis shrimp, krill, brine shrimp, and other high-quality foods.

Can OB Peacock Cichlids live together?

Yes. They do well in properly stocked Malawi aquariums with plenty of rockwork and hiding places to break up territories.

Why is my OB Peacock losing colour?

Poor water quality, stress, an inadequate diet, or dominance from other fish can all reduce colour intensity. Stable water conditions and quality nutrition help maintain their brilliant appearance.

Common Mistakes

Keeping them in small aquariums

OB Peacock Cichlids require spacious aquariums with plenty of swimming room and territories.

Mixing them with incompatible fish

Avoid housing them with peaceful community fish that may become stressed or bullied.

Not providing enough rockwork

Caves and rock formations help establish territories and reduce aggression.

Feeding poor-quality foods

A premium African cichlid diet enhances colour, health, and longevity.

Neglecting water quality

Excellent filtration, stable alkaline water, and regular maintenance are essential for vibrant, healthy fish.