Albino Dragon Blood Peacock - (No Online Purchases)

The Albino Dragon Blood Peacock is a spectacular aquarium strain of peacock cichlid developed through selective breeding of Lake Malawi cichlids. It is prized for its vivid red, orange and yellow colouration combined with the distinctive pink or red eyes associated with albinism.

Unlike naturally occurring species, the Albino Dragon Blood Peacock is generally considered a line-bred aquarium strain rather than a wild fish found in Lake Malawi.

Quick Facts

Appearance

Albino Dragon Blood Peacocks are among the most colourful African cichlids available.

Typical features include:

• Bright red, orange and yellow body colouration
• Pink or ruby-red eyes
• Metallic blue highlights on some specimens
• Extended dorsal and anal fins in mature males
• Deep-bodied peacock cichlid shape

Males are significantly more colourful than females and display their best colours when healthy and dominant.

Aquarium Requirements

Tank Size

A minimum aquarium of 250 litres is recommended for a small group. Larger aquariums of 300 litres or more provide greater stability and allow more natural social behaviour.

Aquascaping

A suitable setup should include:

• Rock formations and caves
• Open swimming areas
• Sandy or fine gravel substrate
• Strong biological filtration
• Moderate water movement

Peacock cichlids enjoy territories but are also active open-water swimmers.

Water Parameters

Maintain:

• Temperature: 24–28°C
• pH: 7.8–8.6
• GH: 8–20 dGH
• Ammonia: 0 ppm
• Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: preferably below 20 ppm

Consistent water quality is essential for maintaining colour and health.

Temperament

Albino Dragon Blood Peacocks are generally less aggressive than many mbuna cichlids but can still be territorial.

Males may:

• Defend display territories
• Chase rival males
• Become more aggressive during breeding

Providing adequate space and visual barriers helps reduce conflict.

Compatible Tank Mates

Suitable companions include:

• Other peacock cichlids (Aulonocara species)
• Copadichromis azureus
• Placidochromis phenochilus
• Otopharynx lithobates
• Other peaceful Malawi haplochromines

Avoid:

• Highly aggressive mbuna
• Small community fish
• Fin-nipping species
• Fish that require soft, acidic water

Feeding

In the aquarium, provide a varied diet consisting of:

• Quality cichlid pellets
• Spirulina-based foods
• Frozen mysis shrimp
• Frozen brine shrimp
• Krill-based foods
• Occasional live foods where appropriate

Feed once or twice daily in quantities consumed within a few minutes.

Avoid overfeeding, as excess food can contribute to poor water quality and digestive problems.

Breeding

Like most peacock cichlids, Albino Dragon Blood Peacocks are maternal mouthbrooders.

The breeding process usually follows these steps:

1. The male establishes a breeding territory.
2. The female lays eggs.
3. The female collects the eggs in her mouth.
4. Fertilisation occurs during spawning.
5. The female incubates the eggs and fry for approximately 21–28 days.
6. Fully formed fry are released.

Females may eat very little while brooding.

Special Considerations for Albino Fish

Because of their reduced pigmentation, albino fish can be more sensitive to intense lighting.

Providing:

• Shaded areas
• Rock caves
• Floating plants (where suitable)
• Moderate lighting

can help reduce stress and encourage natural behaviour.

Common Health Issues

Malawi Bloat

A potentially serious condition associated with:

• Poor water quality
• Stress
• Inappropriate diet

Prevention through good husbandry is far easier than treatment.

Colour Fading

May result from:

• Stress
• Poor nutrition
• Subordinate social status
• Inadequate water conditions

Physical Injuries

Minor fin damage can occur during territorial disputes, particularly in crowded aquariums.

Is the Albino Dragon Blood Peacock Suitable for Beginners?

Yes, provided the aquarist has a basic understanding of African cichlid care.

Advantages include:

✔ Exceptional colouration
✔ Hardy when maintained correctly
✔ Active and engaging behaviour
✔ Relatively straightforward care requirements

Challenges include:

✘ Requires a large aquarium
✘ Can show territorial aggression
✘ Needs hard, alkaline water
✘ Breeding may produce offspring with variable colour patterns due to its hybrid background

For aquarists seeking a vibrant centrepiece fish for a Lake Malawi-style aquarium, the Albino Dragon Blood Peacock is one of the most striking and rewarding peacock cichlids available.