Orinoco Peacock Bass
NameOrinoco Peacock Bass
Scientific NameCichla orinocensis
Common NamesOrinoco Peacock Bass, Orinoco P-Bass
FamilyCichlidae
OriginSouth America, Orinoco River Basin, Venezuela, Colombia
Temperamentaggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Leveladvanced
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)250
Max Size (Inches)24
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)75-82
pH Range6.0-7.5
Compatible SpeciesOther large Peacock Bass species, Oscar Cichlids, Arowanas, Large Catfish (e.g., Red Tail Catfish, Tiger Shovelnose Catfish), Large Plecos
Description
The Orinoco Peacock Bass is a large, predatory cichlid known for its vibrant yellow-green coloration with distinct black spots or ocelli along its flanks and a prominent caudal ocellus. Native to the Orinoco River basin, it is a highly sought-after game fish and an impressive, albeit challenging, aquarium inhabitant. They are powerful hunters that require a very large tank and a diet rich in protein.
