Description:

The Aulonocara Apache Sulphur Head (often identified scientifically as Aulonocara maylandi) is one of the most sophisticated-looking Peacocks in the hobby. It is famous for its "stealthy" look—a deep, dark blue-to-black body contrasted by a brilliant neon yellow/sulphur "blaze" that runs from its snout, over its head, and along the entire edge of the dorsal fin.

Unlike many of the flashy, "glittery" Peacocks, the Apache has a matte, velvety appearance that makes the yellow stripe pop.

 

Quick Stats
Scientific Name: Aulonocara maylandi

Max Size: 4.5 – 5.5 inches (11–14 cm).

Temperament: Peaceful to Semi-aggressive. It is actually one of the more laid-back Peacocks, making it a "gentle giant" in the Malawi world.

Diet: Carnivore/Omnivore (prefers protein-rich foods but needs some vegetable matter).

Water & Tank Requirements
This species is endemic to the "intermediate zones" of Lake Malawi, where the rocks meet the sand.

Parameter	Ideal Range
Temperature	75°F – 82°F (24°C – 28°C)
pH Level	7.8 – 8.6
Minimum Tank Size	55 Gallons (standard 4-foot tank)
Substrate	Sand is mandatory. They are "benthophagous," meaning they sift through sand to find food. Gravel can damage their sensitive sensory pores.

 

Compatibility & Social Behaviour
Because the Sulphur Head is more peaceful than many other cichlids, you have to be careful not to house it with "bullies" that will cause it to lose its colour.

Best Mates: Other peaceful Peacocks (like the Blue Orchid) and calm Haps (like the Placidochromis electra or Yellow Labs).

The "Apache" Rule: Avoid keeping them with highly aggressive Mbuna (like Red Zebras or Auratus). The stress from more aggressive fish will cause the Apache’s yellow blaze to fade and its body to turn a dull grey.

Gender Ratio: Ideally 1 male to 3+ females. Males can be persistent when breeding, so having multiple females spreads out the attention.

Feeding for the Best Yellow
To keep that "Sulphur" blaze bright, their diet should be high quality:

Pellets: Use a high-quality sinking cichlid pellet as the base.

Colour Enhancers: Foods containing Spirulina or natural carotenoids will help the yellow stripe remain vibrant.

Frozen Foods: Brine shrimp and Mysis shrimp are excellent treats. Avoid bloodworms as a staple to prevent "Malawi Bloat."

Important Note on Colouration
When you buy these at a young age (under 2 inches), they often look like plain silver/grey fish. The famous "Apache" warpaint only appears as the male matures. If you have a male that isn't showing colour, ensure he isn't being bullied by a more dominant fish in the tank.

Peacock 

• Origin: Lake Malawi
• Adult Size: 16cm
• Social: Peaceful with similarly sized fish
• Lifespan: 6-10 years
• Tank Level: Mid Level
• Minimum Tank Size:
• Diet: omnivores but lean toward high-protein foods.
• Care: Easy
• pH: 7.5 - 8.5
• Temperature: 24 - 28 Celsius