Peacock Cichlids, belonging to the genus Aulonocara, are a popular group of African cichlids originating from Lake Malawi. They are highly sought after for their vibrant colors and generally manageable temperament compared to many of their lake-dwelling relatives. While all cichlids exhibit territorial behavior, Aulonocara species are considered one of the less aggressive groups. Their aggression is usually focused and predictable, primarily involving dominance displays between males rather than being peaceful community fish.
The Peacock Cichlid Temperament: A Nuanced Answer
Peacock Cichlids maintain a hierarchical social structure where a dominant male establishes a territory. This territory is typically a specific area of the tank, often centered around a rock or cave structure. The aggression displayed is usually posturing, involving flaring fins, gill covers, and rapid, short chases to assert dominance over subdominant males.
This territoriality is primarily directed toward other Peacock Cichlids, especially those with similar coloration or body shape. Their aggression is less intense than that of Mbuna cichlids, which are known for their relentless, rock-grazing territoriality. Peacock Cichlids are open-water dwellers, and their aggression focuses more on maintaining a social order than defending a fixed, small cave. The dominant male will actively suppress the color and growth of subordinate males.
Key Triggers: Factors That Increase Aggression
Several environmental and social conditions can elevate the aggression levels of Peacock Cichlids. The most common trigger is the presence of a female, particularly during the breeding cycle. Males become intensely aggressive when courting a female or defending a spawning site, which is a natural behavior for these maternal mouthbrooders.
A lack of adequate space is a major factor, as it prevents the establishment of distinct territories, leading to constant conflict. A tank smaller than the recommended 55 gallons for a group of Peacocks can force fish into close proximity, resulting in heightened stress and fighting. An imbalanced gender ratio, such as having multiple males with only one or two females, concentrates the male’s breeding aggression onto a single target. Insufficient visual breaks in the tank layout also contribute to stress, as subdominant fish have no place to retreat out of the dominant male’s sight.
Practical Management: Controlling Aggression Through Tank Setup
The physical setup of the aquarium is the most effective tool for mitigating aggression in Peacock Cichlids. Aquascaping should focus on breaking up the line-of-sight across the tank, which prevents the dominant male from claiming the entire area. Using tall rock structures, caves, and large pieces of driftwood creates visual barriers, allowing subdominant fish to establish smaller, temporary territories and retreat when necessary.
Maintaining a proper gender ratio, often called a “harem setup,” is highly effective. A ratio of one male to three or four females is recommended to disperse the male’s breeding-related aggression, preventing any single female from being harassed. Ensuring high water quality is also important, as stress from poor parameters can exacerbate aggressive tendencies. Periodically rearranging the tank decor can disrupt established territories and reset the social hierarchy if a single male becomes overly tyrannical.
Choosing Companions: Suitable Tank Mates
Selecting appropriate tank mates is important for maintaining a harmonious Peacock Cichlid community. The best companions are often other African cichlids of similar size and temperament, such as certain peaceful Haplochromis species (Haps). Species like the Electric Blue Hap (Sciaenochromis fryeri) or the Yellow Lab (Labidochromis caeruleus), a peaceful Mbuna, are frequently kept with Peacocks because they can hold their own without being overly aggressive.
Bottom-dwelling fish that occupy a different level of the water column also make good companions. Armored catfish, such as the Bristlenose Pleco (Ancistrus sp.) or various Synodontis catfish, are suitable because their protective bodies and different habitat preference allow them to avoid direct conflict. Fish to avoid include small, slow-moving species like Guppies or Angelfish, which may be harassed or eaten, and highly aggressive cichlids like most Mbuna species or large Central American cichlids, which can easily overpower the more mildly tempered Peacock Cichlids.