Aulonocranus dewindti Scientific Name: Aulonocranus dewindti Common Names: Dewindt's Cichlid, Dewindt’s Aulonocranus Overview Aulonocranus dewindti, also known as Dewindt's Cichlid, is a stunning species native to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. This species is characterized by its striking appearance, with a vibrant color range that can include shades of yellow, blue, and orange. As a member of the cichlid family, it exhibits both territorial and social behaviors, making it an interesting addition to aquariums. While peaceful with its own kind when paired, it can show aggression toward tankmates, especially in smaller tanks or during breeding. Key Information Size: 3–4 inches (7.5–10 cm) Lifespan: 5–7 years Temperament: Semi-aggressive, territorial during breeding Diet: Carnivore, with some plant matter Swimming Level: Mid to bottom Habitat & Tank Setup Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons for a pair, larger for groups Group Size: Best kept in pairs or small groups with adequate hiding spots Substrate: Sand or fine gravel Decor: Rocks, caves, and driftwood to create territories and hiding spaces Plants: Hardy plants or floating vegetation (may dig up plants) Lighting: Moderate to bright Filtration: Good filtration with moderate water flow Water Parameters Temperature: 74–82°F (23–28°C) pH: 7.5–9.0 Hardness: Hard (10–20 dGH) Water Quality: Needs clean, well-oxygenated water with regular water changes Feeding Diet Type: Carnivore with occasional plant matter Suitable Foods: High-quality cichlid pellets Frozen or live foods (brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia, etc.) Occasionally blanched vegetables (spinach, peas) Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times per day Tankmates Compatible With: Other cichlids from Lake Tanganyika or similarly peaceful species Larger peaceful fish (tanganyikan species, larger synodontis catfish) Avoid: Small, slow-moving fish Aggressive fish or overly territorial species Care Notes Territorial, especially during breeding – provide plenty of hiding spots and visual barriers Males are often more colorful and aggressive during the breeding season Needs a well-oxygenated, stable tank with excellent water quality Prefers to have a sandy substrate for digging and creating territories Can be prone to fin-nipping or aggression if stressed or overcrowded Fun Fact Aulonocranus dewindti’s brilliant coloration becomes even more vibrant during the breeding season, with males showcasing their full color range to attract females. They are known to be quite the excavators, creating small burrows or territories in the substrate.
