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Greenface aulonocara

Aulonocara saulosi

Greenface aulonocara© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The Greenface Aulonocara (Aulonocara saulosi) is a small, brightly‑colored cichlid native to the rocky shores of Lake Malawi. Anglers target it mainly for sport in ultra‑light setups or for aquarium collection rather than for food.

Fight
Taste
Inedible/Protected

Basic Information

Family

Cichlidae

Max Size

9.2 cm

Habitat

freshwater

Depth Range

7-40m

Climate

tropical

Best Season

Year‑round in tropical climates; peak activity during the dry season (May‑October) when water clarity is highest

Best Time

Early morning or late afternoon when surface insects are abundant

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for Greenface aulonocara

  • Use an ultralight spin rod (1.5‑2 m) with a 2‑4 lb test line to feel subtle bites
  • Present tiny live baits such as mosquito larvae or daphnia, or use micro soft‑plastic grubs 2‑3 mm in size
  • Fish near rocky outcrops and crevices where the species patrols for sand‑dipping prey
  • Keep the presentation very subtle – a slow retrieve or a static drift works best for this shy, lightly‑fighting fish

Top Fishing Locations for Greenface aulonocara

Cape Maclear, Lake Malawi

Malawi
beginner70% Very Common

One of the most popular entry points on the Malawian side of Lake Malawi, with abundant rocky habitats where Greenface Aulonocara congregate around natural boulders and sand flats.

Best: October‑April (dry season)

Mikese Rock, Lake Malawi (Malawian side)

Malawi
intermediate55% Common

Iconic limestone outcrop teeming with mbuna; anglers often target Greenface Aulonocara using light tackle and small soft plastics.

Best: September‑January

Thumbi West Island, Lake Malawi

Malawi
intermediate45% Occasional

Remote island with steep drop‑offs and caves; the species hides in crevices making it a rewarding hunt for patient anglers.

Best: October‑February

Lake Malombe, Malawi

Malawi
beginner30% Occasional

Shallow extension of Lake Malawi where Greenface Aulonocara spill over into calmer waters, ideal for beginners using float rigs.

Best: October‑March

Chisumulu Island, Lake Malawi (Zambian side)

Zambia
expert20% Uncommon

Less‑touristed island with pristine rock gardens; the species is present but more dispersed, appealing to avid collectors.

Best: September‑December

Mikese Rock, Lake Malawi (Tanzanian side)

Tanzania
intermediate35% Occasional

Tanzanian counterpart of the famous Mikese formation; offers similar fish assemblages with slightly fewer Greenface Aulonocara, making catches a bit rarer.

Best: September‑January

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Greenface aulonocara

Recommended Equipment

RodUltralight spinning rod, 1.5‑2 m, fast action
Line2‑4 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeMicro soft‑plastic grubs or tiny jigs (2‑3 mm)
TechniqueLight spin or float‑and‑wait with a small split‑shot weight

Best bait: Live mosquito larvae, daphnia, or other microscopic aquatic insects