Eureka Red Peacock

Aulonocara jacobfreibergi

Eureka Red Peacock (Aulonocara jacobfreibergi) — Advanced care, Aggressive, under Cichlid. Minimum tank in the app: 63 US gal min; aim for 77–84°F and pH 6.5–8.5. The Eureka Red Peacock appeals to intermediate and advanced aquarists who appreciate vibrant cichlid personalities and dynamic tank interactions.

Eureka Red Peacock (Aulonocara jacobfreibergi) in a planted freshwater aquarium
Care levelAdvanced
TemperamentAggressive
Min tank size63 US gal min
pH range6.5–8.5
Temperature77–84°F
Max size6.7 in (17.0 cm)
Captive lifespan6–10 years
SchoolingNo

Captive lifespan reflects typical experience in a home aquarium, not maximum recorded age; genetics, sourcing, and care vary.

Natural distribution

Africa / South America (varies)

  • Africa
  • South America

Regional colours match the stocking calculator’s origin map.

Eureka Red Peacock Tank Setup

Designing a tank for these cichlids should prioritize ample swimming space complemented by strategic cover to diffuse aggressive encounters. A sandy substrate is ideal for burrowing behaviors, while varied rock formations and plants can create visual barriers. Maintain moderate to strong water flow and ensure balanced lighting to simulate their natural habitat, enhancing both comfort and vibrancy.

What Do Eureka Red Peacocks Eat?

These cichlids are opportunistic feeders, exhibiting a competitive feeding behavior that can lead to aggressive interactions during mealtimes. Offer a varied diet that includes high-quality pellets, fresh vegetables, and occasional protein sources to support health and enhance coloration; however, overfeeding can lead to water quality issues due to their significant bioload.

Eureka Red Peacock Tank Mates

Best paired with robust, similarly sized fish that can hold their own, such as other cichlids or active community fish. Avoid long-finned species or slow swimmers, as they may become targets for fin nipping. Intraspecies dynamics may include establishing a pecking order; therefore, having multiple hiding spots can mitigate aggressive disputes within the group.

Are Eureka Red Peacocks Good for Beginners?

This sits in the advanced range in the app. Strong filtration, stable chemistry, and reading up before purchase matter more than a catchy shop name. Aquarists often underestimate the territorial nature of Eureka Red Peacocks, leading to inappropriate tankmate selections and inadequate space. neglecting to provide sufficient filtration or allowing overcrowding can exacerbate aggression and stress levels, resulting in health issues and poor water quality.

Building a community? Run the full list through the stocking calculator before you add anything else.

Log tests and reminders in App-aquatic—free, same data you see here.