fintofur

Peacock Bass

Advancedfreshwater
Cichla ocellaris
Peacock Bass

Overview

Cichla ocellaris, sometimes known as the butterfly peacock bass, is a very large species of cichlid from South America, and a prized game fish.

Water Parameters

Parameter Value
Temperature 24–28°C (75–82°F)
pH 6.5–7.5
Adult Size 75 cm (30 in)
Min Tank 200 gallons
Lifespan 10–12 years

Tank Setup

Feeding

Carnivore — live fish, large pellets, shrimp

Compatibility

Breeding


Image credit: Wikimedia Commons — licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.

Taxonomic data: Cichla ocellaris Bloch & Schneider, 1801 — GBIF (2026). Wikipedia summary: Peacock Bass — CC BY-SA 4.0.

Care parameters cross-referenced with Seriously Fish.

Quick facts & gear

Min tank size
200 gallons
Temperature
24–28°C (75–82°F)
pH range
6.5–7.5
Adult size
75 cm (30 in)
Lifespan
10–12 years
Origin
Member of family Cichlidae, order Perciformes. See species profile for distribution details.
Diet
Carnivore —live fishlarge pelletsshrimp