Aulonocara stuartgranti “Ngara” 7–9 cm (Aulonocara stuartgranti) is a stunning local form of Aulonocara from Lake Malawi, often known as the “Ngara flametail”. At 7–9 cm these are young/subadult fish; adult males usually reach 12–14 cm, females remaining smaller. This species is part of our freshwater range and is best kept in dedicated Malawi setups with ample space and strong filtration.

Behavior and care

Aulonocara stuartgranti “Ngara” is relatively peaceful for a Malawi cichlid, though adult males become territorial when breeding. It is best kept in a harem (1 male with 3–4 females) alongside other Malawi cichlids of similar temperament.

We recommend at least 250–300 litres with a generous tank length for swimming. Provide powerful filtration and good oxygenation with a moderate current. Use starter bacteria when cycling the tank and check water values with our water tests. Avoid mixing with highly aggressive species that might dominate this peacock cichlid.

Diet

In nature, Aulonocara are benthic micro-predators, detecting small prey in the sand. In the aquarium, offer high-quality pellets for Malawi cichlids, supplemented with frozen foods (brine shrimp, krill, mysis, daphnia) and some flake/pellets rich in carotenoids to enhance colour.

Avoid fatty meats and mammalian-based foods. For best results, vary the diet using our foods for African cichlids and feed 2–3 small meals per day without overfeeding.

Water parameters

• Ideal temperature: 24 – 27 °C
• pH: 7.5 – 8.5
• GH: 6 – 15 °dGH
• KH: 5 – 12 °dKH
• Conductivity: 180 – 450 µS

Like all Malawi cichlids, this species requires clear, hard, well-buffered water with very low nitrite and nitrate levels. Before adding the fish, treat tap water with an appropriate water conditioner. Combine strong filtration with regular maintenance using our maintenance tools and weekly water changes.

Decor and environment

Recreate a rocky Lake Malawi habitat with a bottom of fine, light sand and plenty of stacked rocks forming caves and hiding places. Leave a clear open area for swimming above the sand.

Plants are not essential in a Malawi tank, but a few hardy species (Vallisneria, Anubias on rock) may be added. A moderate to fairly strong lighting system will show off the males’ blue and orange tones beautifully.

Care sheet

AquaBota tip

For a truly stunning Aulonocara stuartgranti “Ngara”, focus on well-buffered hard water, a balanced harem and a varied, high-quality diet.
Stability = success: check your water regularly with our water tests and perform weekly water changes to keep conditions stable.

Shipping and delivery of live fish

Fish are shipped with great care in insulated, purpose-designed packaging to ensure their safety during transport.

Delivery methods

• France Express (secure home delivery in France, Belgium and Luxembourg)
• In-store pickup in Sombreffe (Belgium)

Shipping schedule

• Order cut-off: every Monday at 10:00.
• France: shipments on Monday or Tuesday, depending on the destination department, for a delivery between Tuesday and Thursday.
• Belgium and Luxembourg: shipments on Monday and Tuesday for a delivery between Tuesday and Wednesday.