One positive effect of their introduction has been an increase of both the Largemouth Bass and Redear Sunfish, which are also desirable gaming fish.īecause of their inability to tolerate cold temperatures they are confined to the southern part of those canals. For this purpose they were legally introduced into modified canals and lakes in southern Florida, United States. Interestingly, the Peacock Cichlid is primarily known as a gaming fish. Because of their size and temperament they do best in a species tank or with other large South American cichlids. In the wild they are rapid swimmers but in the aquarium they are more sedate, often lying motionless waiting for prey. They are also territorial and voracious predators, eating anything that fits in their mouth. Peacock Cichlids are quite adaptable and don't require any special water chemistry, though they are sensitive to ammonia and nitrites and will need regular water changes.īecause of their size, only juvenile specimens of the Peacock Cichlid are really suitable for the aquarium. They don't bother live plants, so these can be provided around the inside parameter of the tank while leaving plenty of open space for swimming. They appreciate a bottom of sand or gravel with some rocks and wood for cover along with some flat stones for spawning. They are moderately difficult to care for as they need to be housed in a very large aquarium, a minimum of 70 gallons. This cichlid is sort of like owning a small dolphin! They will beg for food, splash at you for attention, and sprint around their tank to catch your eye. Just like cichlids of smaller sizes, Peacock Cichlids are known for their striking intelligence and ability to attach to their owners, and when they see you come into a room they recognize you. That being said, this fish is likely a perfect choice for those who want one of the most dramatic cichlids in the hobby. To be clear, this fish is not for everyone! It grows to a significant size of around 30" (2.5 feet or 74 cm) and will require a massive aquarium for optimal health. Reminding the observer of the distinctive tail feather of the male peacock, this tail fin has garnered the fish such common names as Peacock Cichlid, Butterfly Peacock Bass, Peacock Bass, and Eye Spot Cichlid. But it's the distinctive ocellus or 'eye spot' seen on the tail fin that commands the most attention and that gives this fish its name. It presents an olive-green body color which transitions into a yellow-white belly and is marked on the body and back by black blotches and stripes. Its shape and large size cause many observers to mistake it for a type of bass fish, but it is in fact just a very large and colorful cichlid fish. The Peacock Cichlid Cichla ocellaris is an eye catching show fish for a very large aquarium.
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