Pinima Peacock Bass

Cichla pinima is endemic to the lower Rio Tapajós and adjacent Maués drainage in Amazonas state, Brazil, and is among the rarest Peacock Bass encountered in the aquarium hobby. Its colour pattern is arguably the most densely spotted of any Cichla: a close network of gold, white, and black spots covers virtually the entire body, creating a stippled effect unlike any other species. Adults are truly spectacular.

The Tapajós is a clear-water river with warm, moderately soft conditions. C. pinima requires similar water quality in captivity: clean, warm, well-oxygenated water with moderate hardness and good filtration. As with all Cichla, tank size requirements are extreme and should not be underestimated when acquiring juveniles.

Rarity and exceptional patterning make C. pinima a prized collector fish. Most specimens in the hobby are wild-caught; captive breeding has been documented but remains a rare achievement. Dedicated keepers who successfully breed this species contribute meaningfully to reducing collection pressure.

Water: 25-30°C, pH 5.5-7.0, soft (1-8 dGH); Tapajós-type clear water; avoid nitrate accumulation above 15 ppm. Tank: Minimum 700L; minimal furnishing; powerful circulation; high-quality biological and mechanical filtration. Feeding: Large carnivore pellets, whole frozen fish, prawn; high-protein diet maintains spotting intensity. Breeding: Open substrate spawner; rarely bred in captivity; large undisturbed aquaria required for spawning. Compatibility: Only with genuinely unswalllowable species; very large catfish and similar.