Fin's Fish Guide
The Sand peacock (Aulonocara rostratum) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Description
The sand peacock is a 'peacock cichlid' (Aulonocara) endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa. The species grows to about 18 cm; courting males turn metallic blue. It lives over open sand and mud bottoms, where it ranges as a solitary fish. With the sensitive, pore-studded underside of the head it detects invertebrates hidden in the sand, a hunting technique characteristic of the peacock cichlids. It is a maternal mouthbrooder. The species is popular with aquarists and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Sand peacock?
The Sand peacock has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a plain pattern. Tracks down prey in the sand with pores in the head; maternal mouthbrooder (peacock cichlid).
Where does the Sand peacock live?
The Sand peacock lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Endemic to Lake Malawi in East Africa; open sandy and muddy bottoms.
How big does the Sand peacock get?
The Sand peacock grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Sand peacock dangerous to humans?
No, the Sand peacock is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Sand peacock edible?
The Sand peacock is rarely eaten.
Want the complete picture on the Sand peacock?
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Aulonocara
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Sand peacock?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Sand peacock is one of 12,519 species in the app.