Description
The Dragon Blood Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara baenschi), also known as the Dragon Blood Cichlid or Dragon Blood Aulonocara, is one of the most sought-after African Cichlids thanks to its brilliant red, pink, and orange coloration. As a selectively bred strain of Peacock Cichlids (Aulonocara species), the Dragon Blood Peacock stands out as a fiery, eye-catching showpiece in Lake Malawi aquariums. With its hardy nature and striking colors, this Cichlid is a must-have for both hobbyists and advanced aquarists.
Originating from Lake Malawi in Africa, Dragon Blood Peacock Cichlids are admired for their vibrant coloration and relatively peaceful temperament compared to other Cichlids. This Peacock Cichlid is a hybrid variant, selectively bred to enhance its unique reddish-pink tones, which intensify as the fish matures. Their stunning coloration makes them one of the most popular choices among African Cichlid enthusiasts worldwide.
The Dragon Blood Peacock Cichlid reaches an adult size of about 5–6 inches (12–15 cm). Males are especially striking, showing deep red to pinkish hues across the body with shimmering metallic undertones, while females are paler but still elegant. Their colors intensify with proper diet, stable water quality, and well-maintained environments.
Dragon Blood Peacock Cichlids are semi-aggressive but generally more peaceful than the Mbuna species. They thrive in aquariums with other Peacock Cichlids (Aulonocara), Haps, and non-aggressive African Cichlids. To reduce territorial disputes, provide plenty of rockwork, caves, and swimming space. Keeping them in tanks of 55 gallons or larger ensures healthy growth and natural behavior.
At Splashy Fish tropical fish store, our Dragon Blood Peacock Cichlids for sale and other Peacock Cichlids for sale are tank-raised, healthy, and carefully selected for vivid coloration and optimal size. Shop online or visit our aquarium store in Virginia to discover high-quality freshwater fish for sale, betta fish for sale, freshwater shrimp for sale, aquatic plants, and essential aquarium supplies.
WHAT MAKES THIS FISH SPECIAL?
Brilliant red, pink, and orange coloration
Grows to 5–6 inches, which is an ideal showpiece fish
Hardy and adaptable for African cichlid aquariums
Semi-aggressive but more peaceful than Mbuna
Popular hybrid strain of Peacock Cichlids (Aulonocara)
RECOMMENDED TANK PARAMETERS
Tank Size: Minimum 55 gallons
Temperature: 75°–82°F (24°–28°C)
pH: 7.8–8.6 (alkaline, Lake Malawi conditions)
Hardness: 8–20 dGH
Filtration: Strong, with excellent water circulation and regular maintenance
CARE GUIDELINES
Diet: Omnivorous. Provide high-quality cichlid pellets, spirulina flakes, and supplements with frozen or live foods like brine shrimp and bloodworms for the best coloration.
Tank Setup: Rocky aquascape with caves for territories and sandy substrate to mimic Lake Malawi. Keep open swimming areas for active movement.
Behavior: Semi-aggressive, especially males. Works best in larger tanks with multiple hiding spots to minimize disputes.
See more detailed information on How to Care for Peacock Cichlids here.
