Blueberry O.B. Cichlid – Hybrid Peacock Cichlid
Blueberry O.B. Cichlid is a selectively bred hybrid African cichlid known for its striking blue coloration combined with irregular dark, orange, and contrasting blotched markings.
This fish is generally sold as an Aulonocara sp. hybrid, commonly referred to as an OB Peacock. The “OB” designation refers to the irregular blotched pattern seen across the body, and because these fish are hybrids, no two individuals will look exactly alike.
Key Features
- Striking blue, dark, orange, and contrasting blotched coloration
- Hybrid Peacock cichlid
- Scientific designation: Aulonocara sp.
- Adult size approximately 5–6 inches
- Mild to moderately aggressive
- Best suited for African cichlid aquariums
- Generally compatible with similarly sized Peacocks and Haps
- Individual color and pattern will vary
Product Information
- Common Name: Blueberry O.B. Cichlid
- Scientific Name: Aulonocara sp. hybrid
- Type: OB Peacock Cichlid
- Origin: Captive-bred hybrid strain
- Adult Size: Approximately 5–6 inches
- Temperament: Mild to moderately aggressive
- Diet: Omnivorous cichlid diet
- Water Type: Freshwater
Color & Appearance
Blueberry O.B. Cichlids are prized for their bright blue coloration and highly variable blotched patterns.
Depending on the individual fish, coloration may include:
- Bright blue
- Deep cobalt blue
- Electric blue accents
- Orange
- Red or pink accents
- Black or dark irregular blotches
Because Blueberry OBs are hybrid fish, coloration and pattern are not uniform. The fish you receive may look noticeably different from photographs of other individuals from the same strain.
Adult Size
Blueberry O.B. Cichlids generally reach approximately 5–6 inches as adults.
Males are often more intensely colored, while females and juveniles may show more subdued coloration depending on genetics, age, and maturity.
Recommended Tank Size
A 55-gallon aquarium or larger is a good practical starting point for a small African cichlid community containing Blueberry OBs.
Larger aquariums are preferred when keeping multiple adult males, larger groups, or other similarly sized Peacock and Hap cichlids.
Water Parameters
Blueberry O.B. Cichlids should be maintained under water conditions appropriate for Lake Malawi-type African cichlids.
- Temperature: Approximately 76–82°F
- pH: Approximately 7.6–8.6
- Hardness: Moderately hard to hard water
- Ammonia: 0 ppm
- Nitrite: 0 ppm
Stable water quality is extremely important. Use strong biological filtration and perform regular partial water changes.
Aquarium Setup
A suitable Blueberry O.B. Cichlid aquarium should provide both open swimming space and visual barriers.
Recommended décor may include:
- Sand or fine gravel substrate
- Rock structures
- Caves and hiding areas
- Open swimming space
- Strong biological filtration
- Good oxygenation and circulation
Secure rockwork carefully so digging fish cannot undermine unstable structures.
Temperament
Blueberry OBs are typically considered mild to moderately aggressive for an African cichlid.
Males may become territorial toward other males, particularly when competing for females, food, or breeding territory.
A larger aquarium with visual barriers and adequate swimming space can help reduce persistent aggression.
Tank Mates
Blueberry O.B. Cichlids are generally best kept with other African cichlids of similar size and temperament.
Good potential tank mates include:
- Other Peacock cichlids
- Similar-sized Haplochromine cichlids
- Other moderately tempered Lake Malawi-type cichlids
They are generally best matched with similarly sized Peacocks and Haps rather than highly aggressive species.
Why Avoid Aggressive Mbuna?
Many Mbuna species can be considerably more aggressive and territorial than Peacock cichlids.
Although compatibility can vary by individual fish and aquarium setup, mixing OB Peacocks with aggressive Mbuna may lead to stress, chasing, fin damage, or injury.
Diet
Blueberry O.B. Cichlids should receive a high-quality diet formulated for African cichlids.
Suitable foods may include:
- Quality cichlid pellets
- Color-enhancing pellets
- Spirulina-containing foods
- Brine shrimp
- Mysis shrimp
- Other appropriate frozen foods in moderation
Feed small portions that the fish can consume within a short period and avoid chronic overfeeding.
Breeding
Like other Peacock-type cichlids, Blueberry OBs are typically maternal mouthbrooders.
During spawning, the female collects fertilized eggs in her mouth and carries the developing young until they are ready to be released.
Breeding females may stop eating while holding eggs or fry.
OB Hybrid Genetics
OB Peacocks are selectively bred hybrids rather than naturally occurring pure species.
The OB pattern was introduced into Peacock and Hap breeding lines through hybridization involving blotched Lake Malawi cichlids.
Because of this genetic variability, individual offspring may differ substantially in:
- Blue color intensity
- Blotch pattern
- Amount of orange or red
- Dark pigmentation
- Overall body appearance
Frequently Asked Questions
What species is the Blueberry O.B. Cichlid?
It is a selectively bred hybrid Peacock cichlid typically sold as Aulonocara sp.
How big does a Blueberry O.B. Cichlid get?
Adults generally reach approximately 5–6 inches.
Are Blueberry OB Cichlids aggressive?
They are usually mild to moderately aggressive. Adult males may become territorial, especially around other males.
Can Blueberry OBs live with other Peacocks?
Yes. Similarly sized Peacock cichlids are generally among the better tank mate choices.
Can Blueberry OBs live with Mbuna?
It is generally better to avoid mixing them with highly aggressive Mbuna species.
Will every Blueberry OB look the same?
No. These are hybrids, and individual color and blotch patterns can vary considerably.
Are Blueberry O.B. Cichlids freshwater fish?
Yes. They are freshwater African cichlids that prefer hard, alkaline water.
Available at Tropical Treasures Wyo
Blueberry O.B. Cichlids are available from Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming, when in stock.
Live fish are available for in-store purchase or local pickup only and are not available for shipping.
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