Aulonocara sp. Turkis

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Aulonocara sp. Turkis is a peacock cichlid from Lake Malawi, valued for its turquoise tones and elegant appearance. As indicated by the term sp., it is an aquarium form sold under a hobby name rather than an officially described species. This fish belongs to Aulonocara, cichlids that search the substrate with sensory pores located on the head. Its availability remains relatively limited, making it appealing to specialized aquarists. It requires alkaline, hard and stable water, a rocky layout and a varied diet, including suitable foods formulated for Malawi cichlids.

General description

Aulonocara sp. Turkis belongs to the peacock cichlids of the genus Aulonocara, associated with Lake Malawi in East Africa. The designation sp. indicates that this form is not presented here as a distinct, formally described species. In aquaria, adult males generally develop turquoise or blue-green coloration, while females and juveniles are more subdued. Its behavior combines bottom-feeding activity with territoriality, especially in males during spawning. Keeping several females for each male helps spread social pressure. A rarity level of 2 corresponds to fairly limited availability in the specialized aquarium trade.

Geographical origin and biotope

The group is associated with Malawi, in East Africa, within the lake’s rocky and sandy-rocky habitats. These environments have clear, highly mineralized, alkaline and generally well-oxygenated water. The bottom alternates between stones, rubble and sandy areas where Aulonocara examine particles for small organisms. In an aquarium, stable water is more important than simply achieving a high pH. A layout made with firmly positioned rocks, open passages and sandy patches better reflects natural conditions. Water movement should be steady and evenly distributed, without producing excessive current throughout the tank.

Specific locality and local name

The trade name Turkis is used for this aquarium form and refers to its turquoise coloration. A precise lake locality cannot be reliably assigned from the trade name alone. The term sp. is therefore important because it prevents a variety or line name from being treated as a species name. In the trade, similar labels such as Turquoise Peacock may also occur, but the name used here remains Aulonocara sp. Turkis. To maintain clear identification, it is best to keep the original supplier label and avoid crossing this fish with other similarly colored Aulonocara.

Appearance and physical characteristics

The body is typical of Aulonocara: fusiform, slightly compressed laterally, with a well-developed dorsal fin and a terminal mouth adapted to searching through the substrate. Mature males usually show turquoise to blue-green reflections, especially on the head, flanks and fins. Females are often gray-brown or silvery and may display faint vertical bars. Color varies with age, sex, social rank and lighting. Good water quality and a darker layout may increase contrast, but the coloration of a juvenile should not be treated as a certain indication of its adult pattern.

General diet

In nature, Aulonocara sift sand and detect small invertebrates with their sensory pores. In aquaria, Aulonocara sp. Turkis accepts quality pellets and flakes for Malawi cichlids, supplemented with small portions of suitable frozen foods. The diet should remain varied and moderate, with a strong proportion of foods formulated for Lake Malawi cichlids. Avoid very fatty meals and foods intended for predatory fish. Several small feedings support digestion and reduce leftovers. Juveniles benefit from frequent meals, while adults should receive controlled portions to prevent obesity and deterioration of water quality.

Essential data

• River of origin: Lake Malawi
• Local name used: Turkis
• Origin of the scientific name: Aulonocara sp., a genus name followed by a provisional designation
• Etymology of the complete name: Aulonocara approximately refers to a fish with a hollow or cavity-like cheek; sp. means undetermined species; Turkis refers to the turquoise color
• Common or vernacular names: Turkis peacock cichlid, Turquoise Peacock
• Family: Cichlidae
• Subfamily: Pseudocrenilabrinae
• Name pronunciation: aw-lo-no-CAR-ah sp. TUR-kiss
• Discovery:
• Maximum adult size: approximately 15 cm
• Water temperature and pH: 24 to 28 °C; pH 7.8 to 8.6
• Waterbody appearance and surrounding vegetation: clear lake water, rocky and sandy-rocky areas; aquatic vegetation not dominant
• Typical tankmates: other peaceful Malawi cichlids of similar size without highly similar coloration
• Temperament and behavior: moderate territoriality; active searching for food over sand; males become more territorial during spawning
• Water depth: littoral areas and rocky slopes of the lake
• Sexual dimorphism: males are more colorful; females are generally duller and smaller
• Bottom structure and flow: rocks, rubble and sand; moderate, well-oxygenated flow without strong current

In your aquarium

To keep Aulonocara sp. Turkis successfully, provide a spacious aquarium, efficient filtration and alkaline water with consistent parameters. A group with several females per male helps reduce repeated chasing. The layout should offer broken sightlines, shelters and open sandy areas. Avoid highly aggressive species, very small fish and mixed Aulonocara groups that encourage hybridization. Success depends on a combination of stable water, a varied diet and careful monitoring of territorial behavior.