Systematics. The genus Aulonocara was described in 1921 by the ichthyologist Regan. The name comes from the Greek “Aulos” meaning flute, probably for the enlarged sensory pores in the head region. Trewavas (1935) further defined the genus and noted enlarged pre-orbital bones and reduction or absence of scales on the “cheek” area. The enlarged pores are part of the lateral line (sensory) system. These pores are important in detecting movements of the small invertebrate prey of this genus. Small sensory structures (neuromasts) in the pores detect minute water movements and transmit electrical impulses through nervous system, alerting the fish to the presence of prey (Moyle and Cech 1988). Species of this genus first became available to aquarists in the early 1970’s (Loiselle 1980).

Aulonocara baenschi Male 90 mm TL

Natural habitat. The peacock know as Aulonocara baenschi has a limited distribution on the eastern (Malawian) shore of Lake Malawi (Konings 1995). This species is described from Nkhomo Reef near the locality of Benga (Meyer & Riehl 1985; also see Oliver 1996-1999). Common names for this species include Aulonocara “Benga” and A. “Nkhomo”. A. baenschi occupies the intermediate zone between rocky and sandy habitats at moderate depths, like other lithophilus members of the genus Aulonocara. The adult male coloration is similar to that of Aulonocara stuartgranti “maleri” from the Maleri Islands. A. baenschi differs from the A. stuartgranti “maleri” by obtaining a somewhat smaller maximum size and having a curved snout as opposed to the straighter snout in A. stuartgranti “maleri” (Konings 1995). Konings (1995) suggests A. baenschi may be associated with the “Chitande Type Aulonocara” owing to the shape of the snout and occurrence at greater depths (15-25 m).

Captive Maintenance. Aulonocara baenschi makes a peaceful and welcome addition to any cichlid tank. A 120-Liter (30 gallon) aquarium is the minimum recommended size for this species, but larger quarters are better. Any combination of external or internal filtration is suitable for this species since they tend not to re-arrange the substrate. Although A. baenschi does not appear to be overly sensitive to water quality, frequent water changes are necessary to maintain optimal health and induce spawning. They will readily adapt to any aquarium habitat and are safe with live plants since they dig little (although I have been told differently) and do not consume plants. A. baenschi will readily consume any offered food, but a mix of dry and frozen (or live) foods is recommended for these invertivores. They quickly adapt to surface feeding, but will also instinctively orient themselves at 45-degrees to the substrate and “attack” food particles that have been deposited there (see sensory cues under Systematics). With proper nutrition and water quality, A. baenschi is easily spawned in the aquarium. Spawning is similar to that of other maternal mouthbrooders, where a ripe female is attracted to a spawning site by male displays. The female will deposit the eggs, and hold them in the mouth where they will be fertilized and brooded. Hatching occurs in approximately 12 days at 26.7 C (80 F) and fry are free-swimming at 21-26 days post-spawn. New fry will readily accept crushed dry food and hatched artemia. Spawning males are among the brightest colored of all cichlids. A baenschi will co-exist with any similarly sized cichlids, but may have difficulty defending spawning territory due to an un-cichlid-like lack of aggression during spawning, particularly with larger mbuna. This can lead to poor fertilization and females aborting broods. Therefore, smaller Tanganyikan rock-dwelling cichlids, Victorian “Haps.”, or other non-cichlid tankmates (e.g. rainbow fish) may be better tankmates if propagation is the goal.

Literature Cited

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