Butterfly Peacock Bass

Cichla ocellaris

Butterfly Peacock Bass is a middle swimmer.

AggressiveMiddle swimmerIntermediate – Advanced

Save this fish or add it directly to one of your aquariums.

Quick facts

Adult size
≤ 75 cm (≤ 29.5 in)
Care level
Intermediate – Advanced
Temperament
Aggressive
Swimming zone
Middle swimmer
Temperature
24–29 °C
pH
6–7.5
GH
5–15 dGH
Diet
Omnivore
Lifespan
up to 15 years

Care requirements

Care level: Intermediate – Advanced.

Because it uses the middle part of the aquarium, leave enough open swimming space instead of crowding that part of the aquarium.

The listed lifespan is up to 15 years.

Water parameters

The temperature range for this fish is 24–29 °C, which fits many tropical freshwater aquariums. Choose other fish with overlapping temperature needs.

The pH range for this fish is 6–7.5. That points to slightly acidic to neutral water, but stability is more important than sudden corrections.

The GH range for this fish is 5–15 dGH. That gives some flexibility, but sudden changes are usually more stressful than a stable value that is slightly imperfect.

Temperament and compatibility

Butterfly Peacock Bass should be planned cautiously with compatible fish only, because aggressive temperament data raises the risk of conflict.

Because this fish uses the middle part of the aquarium, compatibility is easier when other fish are not all competing for the same swimming space.

Swimming zone and behavior

This fish uses the middle part of the aquarium, so leave enough open swimming space for movement and feeding.

Feeding

As an omnivore, Butterfly Peacock Bass should receive a varied diet rather than one repeated food type.

Before adding this fish

  • Choose other fish with overlapping temperature needs.
  • Keep pH stable within the listed range instead of making sudden corrections.
  • Choose other fish carefully around this temperament.
  • Offer a varied diet that matches this species.

Similar fish profiles

Use these profiles to compare fish with similar care level, size, temperature range, or swimming behavior.

FAQ

How large does Butterfly Peacock Bass get?

Butterfly Peacock Bass reaches ≤ 75 cm (≤ 29.5 in). It needs specialist housing, long-term space, strong filtration, and carefully chosen companions.

Is Butterfly Peacock Bass peaceful?

Butterfly Peacock Bass should be planned cautiously with compatible fish only, because aggressive behavior can limit companion options.

What temperature is suitable for Butterfly Peacock Bass?

The temperature range for this fish is 24 to 29 °C. Choose other fish with overlapping temperature needs and avoid sudden temperature swings.

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