Fin's Fish Guide
The Aurora cichlid (Maylandia aurora) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
The aurora cichlid is a small cichlid endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 9 cm; males are light blue with a yellowish glow, females yellow-brown. As a rock-dwelling mbuna it grazes the algal mat (aufwuchs) from rocks with its mouth and picks small invertebrates from it. It is a mouthbrooder: the female carries the eggs and young in her mouth. The fish is popular in the aquarium hobby. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Aurora cichlid?
The Aurora cichlid has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a plain pattern. Rock-dwelling mbuna; grazes aufwuchs and is a mouthbrooder
Where does the Aurora cichlid live?
The Aurora cichlid lives in fresh water and is mostly found around sand or mud bottom. Lake Malawi (endemic)
How big does the Aurora cichlid get?
The Aurora cichlid grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Aurora cichlid dangerous to humans?
No, the Aurora cichlid is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Aurora cichlid edible?
The Aurora cichlid is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Maylandia
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Aurora cichlid?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Aurora cichlid is one of 12,519 species in the app.