Yellow Head Peacock “Nkhata Bay”
Remarks: Aulonocara sp. Chitande Type North are known as Yellow Head Peacocks for obvious reasons – male have a gorgeous golden head with a metallic-black body and jet-black fins. They are a fairly timid peacock and may not show full color in an all-male tank, but you will be rewarded for keeping females with them. Multiple males will color up in an aquarium.
This variant is collected near Nkhata Bay. They also live near Likoma Island, Chizumulu Island, and Mara Point. You can find them primarily over sandy bottoms, and you will be well served to decorate the tank with one or two small rock piles but plenty of open sand.
Scientific Name
Aulonocara sp. “Chitande Type North”
Common Name
Yellow Head
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Origin | Nkhata Bay, Likoma Island, Chizumulu Island, Mara Point |
| Habitat | Sandy bottoms with small rock piles |
| Coloration | Golden head, metallic-black body, jet-black fins |
| Behavior | Timid; shows full color with females present |
FAQ
Do Yellow Head Peacocks require specific tank conditions to display their full color?
Yes, they show their full color best when kept with females. In an all-male tank, they may not display their full vibrancy.
Where are these fish naturally found?
They are naturally found near Nkhata Bay, Likoma Island, Chizumulu Island, and Mara Point in Lake Malawi.
What kind of substrate and decorations are recommended for their tank?
A sandy substrate is ideal. Include one or two small rock piles to provide shelter, but ensure there is plenty of open sand for natural behavior.




Alison Buckland –
The fish are stunning with their golden heads and black fins. I kept one male and one female, and the colors really came out after a few weeks. They’re peaceful and enjoy the sandy bottom. Great addition to a community tank.
Jane King –
Beautiful fish with a unique look. I noticed they were more active and colorful when I added a female. The tank needs plenty of sand and a few rocks for hiding. Easy to care for once set up.
Steven Parsons –
I’ve had this pair for two months now. The male shows off his golden head beautifully when the female is around. They don’t fight and stay calm. Perfect for a beginner-friendly aquarium.