Raspberry O.B. Cichlid – Hybrid Peacock Cichlid
Raspberry O.B. Cichlid is a selectively bred hybrid African cichlid known for its bold red, orange, pink, and dark blotched coloration.
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 red, raspberry, orange, and dark 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: Raspberry 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
Raspberry O.B. Cichlids are prized for their intense coloration and highly variable blotched patterns.
Depending on the individual fish, coloration may include:
- Raspberry red
- Deep red
- Orange
- Pink
- Blue accents
- Black or dark irregular blotches
Because Raspberry 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
Raspberry 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 and maturity.
Recommended Tank Size
A 55-gallon aquarium or larger is a good practical starting point for a small African cichlid community containing Raspberry OBs.
Larger aquariums are preferred when keeping multiple adult males, larger groups, or other similarly sized Peacock and Hap cichlids.
Water Parameters
Raspberry 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 Raspberry O.B. Cichlid aquarium should provide both 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
Raspberry OBs are typically considered mild to moderately aggressive for an African cichlid.
Males may become territorial toward other males, particularly when competing for females or breeding territory.
A larger aquarium with visual barriers can help reduce persistent aggression.
Tank Mates
Raspberry 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
Snake River Cichlids specifically recommends keeping Raspberry OBs with similarly sized Peacocks and Haps and advises against keeping them with Mbuna.
Why Avoid Mbuna?
Many Mbuna species are considerably more aggressive and territorial than Peacock cichlids.
Although compatibility can vary by individual fish and aquarium setup, mixing OB Peacocks with aggressive Mbuna can lead to stress, chasing, and injury.
Diet
Raspberry 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, Raspberry 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:
- Color intensity
- Blotch pattern
- Amount of red or orange
- Blue coloration
- Overall body appearance
Frequently Asked Questions
What species is the Raspberry O.B. Cichlid?
It is a selectively bred hybrid Peacock cichlid typically sold as Aulonocara sp.
How big does a Raspberry O.B. Cichlid get?
Adults generally reach approximately 5–6 inches.
Are Raspberry OB Cichlids aggressive?
They are usually mild to moderately aggressive. Adult males may become territorial, especially around other males.
Can Raspberry OBs live with other Peacocks?
Yes. Similarly sized Peacock cichlids are generally among the better tank mate choices.
Can Raspberry OBs live with Mbuna?
It is generally better to avoid mixing them with more aggressive Mbuna species.
Will every Raspberry OB look the same?
No. These are hybrids, and individual color and blotch patterns can vary considerably.
Are Raspberry O.B. Cichlids freshwater fish?
Yes. They are freshwater African cichlids that prefer hard, alkaline water.
Available at Tropical Treasures Wyo
Raspberry 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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