AquariumFish.com
Freshwater fishPeacock Bass Ocellaris
Peacock Bass Ocellaris
Couldn't load pickup availability
There are 15 known species of peacock bass, great predators and game fish of the Amazon River basin. Peacock bass are fast predators and good jumpers. They are suitable tank mates with larger, aggressive fish. They will eat small fish before you even knew they were in the tank. They hunt in packs if you can put a school of four together.
Ocellaris grow fast and quite large and grow best with live feeder fish, but can adapt to cichlid pellets.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Cichla ocellaris |
| Origin | Amazon basin, South America |
| Care Level | Moderate (grows very large) |
| Temperament | Predatory |
| Adult Size | Up to 2–3 feet |
| Lifespan | 10–15 years |
| Diet | Carnivore (meaty foods) |
| Water Temperature | 76–84°F |
| pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Group Size | Single |
| Shipping Size | Approx. 2½–3" |
Care Guide
Tank setup: Peacock bass grow very large and fast. Give them open swimming space, strong filtration and a heavy, tight lid.
Feeding: Feed meaty foods like quality carnivore pellets and frozen shrimp or fish. Many learn to take pellets once settled.
Tankmates: They will eat any fish that fits in their mouth. Keep them only with large, robust fish.
Good to know: Peacock bass are named for the eye-like spot on the tail, similar to a peacock feather.
Share
