Peacock Bass (Cichla ocellaris)
Cichla ocellaris
Origin: Amazon and Orinoco basins, South America
Water Parameters
Quick Stats
- Max Size
- 75 cm
- Min Tank
- 1000 L
- Lifespan
- 10-15
- Swimming Level
- mid
- Schooling
- No
- Diet
- Carnivore; large cichlid pellets, frozen shrimp, large meaty foods
- Temperament
- Aggressive apex predator; will consume any fish it can swallow
About
The Butterfly Peacock Bass is a spectacular apex predatory cichlid from the Amazon and Orinoco basins, renowned for its brilliant gold and green body marked with three dark blotches and a distinctive ocellated spot on the upper caudal fin. One of the most powerful and visually arresting predators kept in freshwater aquaria, it will consume any fish of swallowable size with extraordinary speed. Its beauty, predatory athleticism, and intelligence make it deeply compelling for specialist large-tank keepers.
Care Guide
Requires an extremely large aquarium (1000 L minimum) with powerful filtration. Feed large cichlid pellets, large frozen shrimp, feeder fish (use responsibly), and meaty foods. Perform frequent large water changes. House only with fish too large to swallow. A species-only tank is strongly recommended.
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