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Aulonocara maleri var., also known as Yellow Regal Albinos, is an albino variety of Aulonocara maleri valued for its bright yellow coloration and elegant appearance. This African cichlid from Lake Malawi belongs to the peacock group, known for calm movements above sandy and rocky substrates. Its pale coloration stands out especially well in a spacious aquarium with strong filtration and a rocky layout. With an intermediate level of availability in the aquarium trade, it suits aquarists looking for a colorful fish that is relatively peaceful compared with other Malawi cichlids, while still territorial during spawning.

General species description

Aulonocara maleri var. is a captive-bred variety of Aulonocara maleri, an African cichlid from the peacock group. Like other Aulonocara, it uses sensory pores on the head to detect small prey in the substrate. Its behavior is generally calmer than that of highly active mbunas, although males defend a territory, especially during breeding. Young fish are usually more social, while adults are best kept in a harem with several females for one male. A good-sized aquarium with open swimming areas and rocky shelters helps create a more stable hierarchy. The albino form also benefits from moderate lighting and hiding places, which can reduce visual stress.

Geographic origin and biotope

This variety is associated with Lake Malawi, in its Tanzanian section, around Chidunga Rocks. It inhabits shoreline areas where rocks, sand and small sediment patches alternate. The water is generally clear, alkaline and mineral-rich, with good oxygenation. The underwater landscape is dominated by rock formations that provide shelter and territorial landmarks; aquatic vegetation plays a secondary role. In the aquarium, recreate this combination with a fine sand substrate, firmly positioned stones and efficient filtration. Avoid sharp décor and unstable rock piles, since these fish sift through the bottom and can move sand.

Precise location and local name

The reference population is generally associated with Chidunga Rocks, a rocky shoreline area of the Tanzanian side of Lake Malawi. The most commonly used trade name is Yellow Regal Albinos, describing the golden-yellow color and albino form offered in the aquarium hobby. The word “Regal” is primarily part of the trade vocabulary and is not necessarily a local vernacular name. In the trade, it may also be listed as Aulonocara maleri var. or Chidunga Yellow Regal Albinos. To preserve line quality, it is best to keep this variety separate from other yellow Aulonocara and to identify breeding fish clearly.

Appearance and physical characteristics

The body is relatively deep and laterally compressed, with long dorsal and anal fins typical of Aulonocara. The albino variety displays a yellow to golden-yellow coloration, reddish or pinkish eyes and strongly reduced dark pigmentation. The fins may show yellow, white or slightly orange contrasts depending on the line. Adult males are usually more colorful and larger than females, which often remain duller and more uniform. The overall shape remains that of a medium-sized cichlid adapted to moving above sandy areas. Coloration may become more intense when the fish is healthy and defending a territory.

General diet

In the wild, Aulonocara probe the sand with their sensory pores to locate small invertebrates. In the aquarium, Aulonocara maleri var. should receive a varied diet consisting of quality Malawi cichlid pellets, small frozen foods and suitable marine-protein preparations. Offer small portions once or twice daily, allowing the fish to finish them quickly. Brine shrimp and mysis can supplement the menu without becoming the only food. Avoid excessively fatty foods and heavy animal-protein diets, which may contribute to digestive problems. A regular, moderate and varied feeding routine supports color, growth and overall vitality.

Essential data

• Name of originating river Chidunga Rocks
• Local name used Yellow Regal Albinos
• Origin of the scientific name Aulonocara identifies the genus; maleri identifies the geographic or trade form associated with Maleri.
• Etymology of the full name Aulonocara comes from the Greek aulon, cavity, and kara, head; maleri refers to Maleri; var. means variety.
• Common/vernacular names Yellow Regal Albinos, Chidunga Yellow Regal Albinos
• Family Cichlidae
• Subfamily Pseudocrenilabrinae
• Name pronunciation aw-loh-noh-KAR-ah - mah-LEH-ree
• Discovery
• Maximum adult size Approximately 12 to 15 cm
• Water temperature and pH 24 to 28 °C; pH 7.5 to 8.5
• Waterway appearance and surrounding vegetation Rocky shoreline, clear water, sandy areas and sparse aquatic vegetation.
• Typical tankmates Labidochromis caeruleus, Copadichromis azureus, Sciaenochromis fryeri, Synodontis multipunctatus
• Temperament and behavior Peaceful compared with mbunas, territorial in males and more pronounced during breeding.
• Water depth
• Sexual dimorphism Male larger and more colorful; female duller, often pale yellow or brownish.
• Bottom structure and flow Sand and rocks; generally calm to moderately circulated water.

In your aquarium

For successful care of Aulonocara maleri var., provide a spacious aquarium, stable alkaline water and well-sized filtration. Keeping one male with several females reduces pressure on a single mate. Fine sand, rounded rocks and hiding places are especially useful. Watch for dominance behavior, feed moderately and avoid mixing several Aulonocara lines with similar coloration. Lower-intensity lighting may also suit the albino form better. With good water quality and similarly sized tankmates, this cichlid can maintain an attractive presence and balanced behavior.