Royal Peacock Bass
NameRoyal Peacock Bass
Scientific NameCichla ocellaris
Common NamesButterfly Peacock Bass, Peacock Bass, Royal Peacock Bass, Tucunaré
FamilyCichlidae
OriginSouth America, Amazon Basin, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, Brazil
Temperamentaggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Leveladvanced
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)180
Max Size (Inches)24
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)75-82
pH Range6.0-7.5
Compatible SpeciesArowana, Large Catfish (e.g., Redtail Catfish, Tiger Shovelnose Catfish), Other large Peacock Bass species (in very large tanks), Large Plecos
Description
The Royal Peacock Bass, also known as Butterfly Peacock Bass, is a large and predatory cichlid characterized by its vibrant golden-yellow coloration, three distinct vertical bars, and a prominent ocellus (eye-spot) on the caudal fin base. These powerful hunters require a very spacious aquarium and a diet primarily consisting of live or frozen meaty foods. They are highly aggressive and predatory, making them unsuitable for typical community tanks.
