Blue Dragonblood

Aulonocara SP 

- Guaranteed Male 4"+ -

Tank Size and Setup:

A 55-gallon tank is the minimum for a small group of Blue Dragon Blood Cichlids. 

Larger tanks are recommended, especially when keeping multiple males, to reduce aggression. 

A sandy substrate is preferred as they like to sift through it. 

Provide plenty of rock structures and caves to create hiding places and mimic their natural habitat. 

Avoid overcrowding the tank, as it can increase aggression. 

Water Parameters:

pH: 7.8-8.6, maintaining alkaline water is crucial for their well-being.

Temperature: 76-82°F (24-28°C).

Hardness: Moderate to hard water (4-6 dH).

Filtration: High-quality filtration is essential to maintain water quality.

Water Changes: Regular partial water changes (20-30% weekly) are necessary to remove nitrates

Diet:

They are omnivores and require a varied diet.

High-quality cichlid pellets or flakes should form the base of their diet.

Supplement with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, krill, and daphnia.

Blanched vegetables can also be included. 

Tank Mates:

They are generally peaceful but can be aggressive towards their own species if not properly managed.

Keeping them in a group with multiple females for each male can help reduce aggression.

Other African cichlids, particularly other Peacock cichlids or Haps, can be suitable tank mates.

Bottom-dwelling fish like Synodontis catfish or clown loaches can also be added. 

Aggression:

While generally peaceful, they can exhibit aggression, especially during breeding or if housed with similar-looking fish.

Overstocking:

Overstocking a tank with a good filtration system can help reduce aggression by spreading out the fish.

Water Quality:

Maintaining stable and clean water is crucial for their health.

Breeding:

They are mouthbrooders, and females will hold the eggs in their mouths after spawning.