• Scientific Name: Aulonocara sp. “Fort Maguire”
• Origin: Lake Malawi, Africa (specific morph named after Fort Maguire)
• Size: Up to 5 inches (12–13 cm)
• Coloration: Males display bright blues and golds; females are generally more muted in color.
• Lifespan: 5–8 years with proper care
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive, especially during breeding

Care and Feeding

Tank Requirements:

• Tank Size: Minimum 55 gallons for a group
• Water Conditions: pH 7.8–8.6; Hardness 10–20 dGH; Temperature 76–82°F (24–28°C)
• Substrate: Sandy substrate preferred for natural digging behavior
• Aquascape: Provide plenty of rocks and caves to create hiding spots and territories, with open swimming areas

Feeding:

• Fort Maguire Aulonocaras are micro-predators in the wild, feeding on small invertebrates.
• In captivity, they thrive on a varied diet:
  • High-quality cichlid pellets (formulated for carnivores)
  • Frozen or live foods: brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia
  • Occasional vegetable matter (spirulina flakes or blanched spinach)