Aulonocara maulana, commonly known as the Maulana Bicolor Peacock or Bi-Color 500, is a highly sought-after, strikingly beautiful African cichlid native to the open waters and rocky outcrops of Chitimba Bay in Lake Malawi. Classified as a variant or close relative of Aulonocara stuartgranti, this species is famous for its vibrant coloration and relatively peaceful nature, making it a favorite for both novice and experienced aquarium hobbyists. [1, 2, 3]

Physical Characteristics

Coloration: Males display a brilliant metallic blue body and face contrasted by a wide, striking yellow to pale orange "collar" or shoulder band running down just behind the head. Females are much more subdued, showing a drab brownish-gray color with faint vertical bars. [1, 2]
Size: They are on the smaller side for peacock cichlids, with males reaching a maximum length of 4 to 6 inches (10–15 cm), while females stay significantly smaller. [1, 2]

AI Mode conversation: AULONOCARA MAULANA

AULONOCARA MAULANA

<b>Maulana</b> Bicolor Peacock (<b>Aulonocara</b> sp.) - shop Imperial ...

CICHLID - PEACOCK <b>MAULANA</b> BICOLOR <b>Aulonocara</b> sp. <b>Maulana</b> ...

<b>Aulonocara Maulana</b> Bicolor | Compre na Kauar | Frete Fixo

SP500 <b>Maulana</b> Bicolour Peacock Cichlid

<b>Maulana</b> Peacock Cichlid (<b>Aulonocara maulana</b>), 4–5 cm

<b>Aulonocara maulana</b> kaufen | Aquahaus Gaus

Physical Characteristics

Coloration: Males display a brilliant metallic blue body and face contrasted by a wide, striking yellow to pale orange "collar" or shoulder band running down just behind the head. Females are much more subdued, showing a drab brownish-gray color with faint vertical bars. [1, 2]
Size: They are on the smaller side for peacock cichlids, with males reaching a maximum length of 4 to 6 inches (10–15 cm), while females stay significantly smaller. [1, 2]

Aquarium Care & Tank Parameters

Setting up a proper environment is essential to keep their colors vibrant and ensure they thrive:

Parameter	Recommended Range
Tank Size	Minimum 55 gallons (approx. 200+ liters) for a small group.
Water pH	7.5 – 8.5 (alkaline water is required).
Temperature	75°F – 82°F (24°C – 28°C).
Water Hardness	Hard water (dH 10–20).
Substrate & Decor	Aragonite or crushed coral sand to maintain high pH, paired with rocky caves for hiding and plenty of open swimming space.

Diet & Feeding

In nature, they are sand-sifters that extract small invertebrates and larvae from the substrate. In the home aquarium, they are un-demanding omnivores. You should feed them high-quality cichlid pellets or flakes supplemented with frozen foods like brine shrimp or mysis shrimp. Avoid tubifex and bloodworms, as these can cause digestive issues like "Malawi bloat." [1, 2, 3, 4]

AI Mode conversation: AULONOCARA MAULANA

AULONOCARA MAULANA

Physical Characteristics

Coloration: Males display a brilliant metallic blue body and face contrasted by a wide, striking yellow to pale orange "collar" or shoulder band running down just behind the head. Females are much more subdued, showing a drab brownish-gray color with faint vertical bars.
Size: They are on the smaller side for peacock cichlids, with males reaching a maximum length of 4 to 6 inches (10–15 cm), while females stay significantly smaller.

Aquarium Care & Tank Parameters

Setting up a proper environment is essential to keep their colors vibrant and ensure they thrive:

Parameter	Recommended Range
Tank Size	Minimum 55 gallons (approx. 200+ liters) for a small group.
Water pH	7.5 – 8.5 (alkaline water is required).
Temperature	75°F – 82°F (24°C – 28°C).
Water Hardness	Hard water (dH 10–20).
Substrate & Decor	Aragonite or crushed coral sand to maintain high pH, paired with rocky caves for hiding and plenty of open swimming space.

Diet & Feeding

Temperament & Compatibility

The Maulana Bicolor is widely considered one of the most peaceful peacock cichlids. While males will defend breeding territories, they cannot compete with overly aggressive tankmates.

Good Tankmates: Other peaceful Aulonocara (Peacock) species, mild-mannered Malawi "Haps" (Utaka), and peaceful bottom-dwellers like Synodontis catfish.
Fish to Avoid: Hyper-aggressive Mbuna cichlids. They will easily bully and stress the Maulana, causing them to lose their bright colors and hide constantly.