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Aulonocara ethelwynnae: the Northern

Aulonocara ethelwynnae, also called Northern, is a Lake Malawi cichlid valued for its elegant shape and subtle coloration. Associated with the rocky areas and sandy beaches of the lake’s northern region, it displays a distinctive feeding behavior: it detects small organisms buried in the substrate and then filters sand through its gill covers. This species is less common in the aquarium trade than several popular Aulonocara, making it appealing to aquarists looking for a distinctive fish. Successful care requires alkaline water, efficient filtration, and a structured layout with suitable shelters.

General species description

Aulonocara ethelwynnae is a haplochromine cichlid in the genus Aulonocara, native to Lake Malawi. Like other peacocks, it uses sensory pores on the head to detect movement and prey in the sand. It inhabits areas where rocks alternate with open spaces rather than densely planted habitats. In aquariums, it is generally more peaceful than many mbuna, although it remains territorial, especially during spawning. Its availability is intermediate in the trade: it is uncommon, but not exceptionally difficult to obtain.

Geographic origin and biotope

The species comes from Malawi, in the northwestern part of Lake Malawi, around Chitande Island. Its natural environment combines rocky outcrops, rubble, and light sandy beaches. Aquatic vegetation is limited; the habitat is mainly mineral, with very clear and highly mineralized water. To recreate this setting, use a well-oxygenated aquarium, stable rocks, and plenty of swimming space. A fine sand substrate also makes it possible to observe its natural sifting behavior.

Precise location and local name

The reference locality is Chitande Island, in the northern sector of Lake Malawi. The most commonly used vernacular or trade name is Northern, referring to its northern origin in the lake. This geographic information matters because Aulonocara populations may differ in coloration and should not be mixed casually in a breeding program.

Appearance and physical characteristics

Aulonocara ethelwynnae has a fairly deep body, a rounded head, and well-developed fins. Adult males may display blue, violet, or metallic shades, while females are more subdued, often gray-brown or silvery. Coloration changes with age, sex, social rank, and breeding condition. The sensory pores on the head and its ability to sift sand are important features of the group. Maximum adult size is approximately 12 cm, depending on growing conditions.

General feeding

In the wild, Aulonocara ethelwynnae searches the sand for small invertebrates and other benthic organisms. In an aquarium, its diet should be based on quality pellets formulated for Lake Malawi cichlids, with small portions of suitable frozen foods. An animal-based diet is more appropriate than the very plant-rich diets intended for mbuna. Feed small portions several times a day to limit waste and respect its natural feeding method. Very fatty foods should be avoided.

Essential data

• Name of source river: Chitande Island
• Local name used: Northern
• Origin of the scientific name: The genus Aulonocara and the specific epithet ethelwynnae.
• Full-name etymology: Aulonocara comes from the Greek aulos, meaning “flute,” and kara, meaning “head”; ethelwynnae honors Ethelwyn Trewavas.
• Common/vernacular names: Northern, Northern Peacock.
• Family: Cichlidae
• Subfamily: Pseudocrenilabrinae
• Name pronunciation: aw-loh-noh-KAR-ah - eth-el-WIN-ee
• Discovery: Günther E. E. Meyer, Rüdiger Riehl, and Hans Zetzsche, 1987.
• Maximum adult size: About 12 cm.
• Water temperature and pH: 24–28 °C; pH 7.5–8.6.
• Waterbody appearance and surrounding vegetation: Clear, mineral-rich lake water with rocky relief, sand, and limited aquatic vegetation.
• Typical tankmates: Aulonocara baenschi, Aulonocara kandeensis, Copadichromis azureus, Labidochromis caeruleus, Synodontis njassae.
• Temperament and behavior: Relatively peaceful, territorial around a spawning site, and active when searching for food in the sand.
• Water depth: Rocky and sandy shoreline areas; exact depth varies by site.
• Sexual dimorphism: Males are more colorful and often larger; females are duller. Males may show stronger breeding markings.
• Bottom structure and flow: Sand and rocks, with water movement created by the lake; no pronounced river current.

In your aquarium

To succeed with Aulonocara ethelwynnae, provide a spacious aquarium, stable alkaline water, and filtration capable of maintaining excellent water quality. A layout of rocks, fine sand, and visual barriers helps reduce tension between males. Ideally keep one male with several females, and avoid mixing it with closely related Aulonocara from nearby localities if preserving the population line is important. Measured feeding, strong oxygenation, and regular water changes will support its coloration and natural behavior.