Aulonocara baenschi
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nkhomo-benga_peacock
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Aulonocara baenschi faces severe population decline primarily due to overfishing for the aquarium trade, where its striking blue coloration makes it highly sought after. Habitat degradation from sedimentation and pollution in Lake Malawi has reduced the rocky reef areas essential for its specialized feeding behavior. The species' extremely limited range around Nkhomo Reef makes it particularly vulnerable to localized environmental changes and collection pressure.
Habitat
This cichlid is endemic to the rocky reefs and sandy-rocky interfaces of Lake Malawi, specifically around Nkhomo Reef in the southwestern portion of the lake. It inhabits depths of 10-40 meters where it feeds by sifting sand for invertebrates among the rocky crevices.
