Rubin Red Peacock Cichlid – 8cm

Aulonocara sp. “Rubin Red”

The Rubin Red Peacock is a striking African cichlid known for its rich red to orange colour and contrasting blue highlights.

This selectively bred Peacock Cichlid is based on Aulonocara from Lake Malawi. Males develop the strongest colour as they mature and can become a standout feature in an African cichlid aquarium.

At approximately 8cm, these fish are already a good size but still have growing and colouring to do.

At a Glance

• Approximate size: 8cm
• Stunning red to orange colour
• Blue highlights may develop around the face and fins
• Popular Lake Malawi Peacock Cichlid
• Generally less aggressive than many Mbuna
• Suitable for African cichlid display aquariums
• Males develop stronger colour as they mature
• Active and highly visible aquarium fish

Aquarium Care

Rubin Red Peacocks prefer a spacious aquarium with plenty of open swimming room.

Use rocks and caves to provide shelter and help create natural territories. A sandy substrate also works well with Peacock Cichlids.

Good filtration and regular water changes are important because African cichlids can produce a significant amount of waste.

Recommended water conditions:

• Temperature: 23–27°C
• pH: 7.5–8.5
• Water hardness: Moderate to hard
• Adult size: Approximately 13–15cm
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive
• Origin: Captive-bred Lake Malawi Peacock strain

A tank of around 200 litres or larger is recommended, especially when keeping a group of African cichlids.

Temperament & Tank Mates

Rubin Red Peacocks are generally more peaceful than many aggressive African cichlids, but males can become territorial.

Suitable tank mates may include:

• Other Peacock Cichlids
• Compatible Haplochromines
• Similar-sized Lake Malawi cichlids
• Suitable African cichlid community fish

Avoid overcrowding and provide enough space for fish to establish territories.

Take care when mixing different Aulonocara varieties if breeding is planned, as Peacock Cichlids can crossbreed.

Feeding

Feed a varied, high-quality diet.

Suitable foods include:

• Quality cichlid pellets
• African cichlid foods
• Spirulina-based foods
• Frozen brine shrimp
• Krill
• Other suitable frozen foods

Feed small amounts rather than one large meal. Avoid overfeeding, as excess food can quickly affect water quality.

Colour Development

Young Rubin Red Peacocks may not show their full adult colour at 8cm.

Mature males usually develop the strongest red or orange colour, often with metallic blue around the face and fins.

Final colour can be influenced by genetics, maturity, diet, aquarium conditions and social hierarchy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How big does a Rubin Red Peacock grow?

Adults generally reach around 13–15cm, although final size can vary between individual fish and breeding lines.

Are Rubin Red Peacocks aggressive?

They are considered semi-aggressive. They are usually calmer than many Mbuna but males can become territorial, especially around other males or during breeding.

What size aquarium does a Rubin Red Peacock need?

A spacious aquarium of around 200 litres or larger is recommended for an African cichlid community. Larger tanks provide more swimming space and make territorial behaviour easier to manage.

What do Rubin Red Peacocks eat?

They do well on quality African cichlid pellets supported by foods such as spirulina, krill and frozen brine shrimp.

Will an 8cm Rubin Red Peacock get more colourful?

Yes. Colour often becomes stronger as the fish matures. Adult males usually display much brighter red, orange and blue colour than juveniles and females.

Can Rubin Red Peacocks live with other African cichlids?

Yes. They can be kept with compatible Peacock and Haplochromine cichlids of a similar size and temperament. Avoid highly aggressive tank mates where possible.