The OB Peacock Cichlid (Aulonocara sp. OB) is a popular and striking hybrid fish from the Lake Malawi region of East Africa. The "OB" stands for Orange Blotch, a distinctive mottled pattern of irregular black, blue, and orange spots.
Key Characteristics
Origin: They are man-made hybrids, originally created by crossing a male Aulonocara (Peacock) with a female Mbuna (often a Metriaclima or Pseudotropheus species).
Size: Adults typically reach 4.5 to 6 inches (12–15 cm).
Lifespan: With proper care, they live for 6 to 8 years, though some can reach 15 years.
Temperament: They are semi-aggressive and territorial, particularly males.
Aquarium Care Requirements
Tank Size: A minimum of 50–55 gallons (approx. 200 liters) is required to accommodate their active swimming habits.
Water Parameters: They thrive in hard, alkaline water with a pH of 7.8–8.6 and temperatures between 74–82°F (23–28°C).
Setup: Use a sandy substrate, as they are benthic and like to sift through sand. Include plenty of rock formations to provide hiding spots and visual barriers.
Diet: As omnivores, they accept high-quality pellets, flakes, and occasional treats like brine shrimp or spirulina-based foods.
