Butterfly Peacock Bass - Cichla Ocellaris : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
The Butterfly Peacock Bass (Cichla ocellaris) stands as a commanding presence within the freshwater ecosystems of the Amazon Basin, drawing attention with its resplendent hues and substantial stature. Esteemed by seasoned aquarium enthusiasts and anglers for its dynamic colour palette and impressive build, this species commands a presence as an apex predator in its natural habitat and is equally esteemed in the realm of home aquaria designed to showcase individual species.
Exhibiting a striking pattern that captivates the eye, the Butterfly Peacock Bass is more than just an aesthetic addition; it demands an in-depth understanding of fish behaviour and environmental management, placing it at the forefront of both ecological research and the sophisticated aquarist's collection. In the domain of aquaculture, the Butterfly Peacock Bass poses intricate challenges, particularly due to its intrinsic predatory inclinations, thus making it an appropriate choice for connoisseurs with profound expertise in the nuances of large Cichlid care rather than for the inexperienced enthusiast.
Despite their innate predatory drive, Butterfly Peacock Bass typically maintain a harmonious coexistence with comparably sized aquarium companions, necessitating that fellow inhabitants measure at least half their size to avoid triggering their instinctual chase reflex.
The spatial and environmental considerations for housing Butterfly Peacock Bass in a captive setting are substantial. A spacious aquarium, ideally with lengths spanning 6 to 8 feet and a width of 3 feet, is critical to accommodate their full-grown size, with thoughtful scaling as they progress through life stages. The design of the aquarium should strike a balance between generous open swimming areas and refuges that mimic natural structures, such as driftwood, resilient plants, and rockscapes, alongside a base layer of sand or gravel.
Native to swiftly flowing waterways, Butterfly Peacock Bass thrive in settings that mirror their natural preference for well-oxygenated and unpolluted waters. Achieving such an environment in captivity hinges on sophisticated filtration systems that ensure water clarity and movement, reflecting their pristine riverine habitats. Their carnivorous appetite and subsequent waste output further underscore the need for advanced filtration to handle the byproducts of their vigorous feeding activities. The aquarium's size and configuration must be carefully considered to align with the adult dimensions of this species.
In terms of colouration, Butterfly Peacock Bass showcase a spectrum ranging from yellows and greens to vibrant reds and oranges. Though individual colouration can vary significantly, the species is typically marked by three distinct vertical bars along their flanks, which can become less prominent with age. The common name of the species is inspired by the distinctive ocellated spot edged in a brilliant yellow halo, situated on the caudal fin, reminiscent of a peacock's feather, an unmistakable mark of their identity.
Butterfly Peacock Bass Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
To accurately identify the sex of mature Butterfly Peacock Bass, it is essential to inspect the genital papilla, a small, slit-like feature positioned between the anal and ventral fins. The genital papilla of males usually appears slender and V-shaped, while that of females is characteristically wider and U-shaped. Proficiency in this method is essential for accuracy and is most effectively applied to fish that have reached a size of at least 6 to 7 inches.
While some aquarists might consider a nuchal hump as a gender indicator, this is not a dependable criterion, as females can also display nuchal humps, particularly in the breeding season. Therefore, genital papilla examination remains the most reliable approach for sex determination in Butterfly Peacock Bass.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Cichla Ocellaris |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1801 |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Cichliformes |
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Genus | Cichla |
| Origins | Guinea , Brazil |
| Max Size | 75 cm |
| Temperament | Aggressive |
| Aquarium Level | Middle |
| Difficulty | Intermediate - Advanced |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | Loners |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg Depositor |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 15 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.0 - 7.5 |
| GH | 5 - 15 |
| ℉ | 76 - 84 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 24 - 29 |
Natural Habitat
The Butterfly Peacock Bass is indigenous to the riverine ecosystems of the Marowijne and Essequibo Rivers in the Guianas, as well as the Branco River in Brazil. The species has been introduced to areas beyond its original habitat, notably in parts of Florida, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico.
This fish thrives in tepid, lethargic aquatic environments such as lakes, ponds, canals, and quarries. Consistent with the behavioural patterns of other bass species, the Butterfly Peacock Bass exhibits a preference for sheltered areas, often residing in the protective shadows offered by arboreal overhangs, architectural structures like bridges, and man-made culverts.
Breeding
To initiate a breeding colony of Butterfly Peacock Bass, it is advisable to start with a minimum of six young fish, enabling them to pair off naturally over time. Finding pre-mated pairs in the trade can be difficult; hence, this method promotes the natural development of pair bonds. As the juveniles grow, careful selection for breeding should focus on colour intensity and sex determination, ultimately leading to the segregation of a breeding pair.
Creating a conducive breeding environment is essential, involving a spacious aquarium of at least 1100 litres, designed simply with a bare bottom to simplify maintenance and facilitate observation. Including a large piece of slate provides an ideal laying site for the fish. Isolating the pair during the breeding phase minimizes stress and encourages successful reproduction.
Pristine water conditions are paramount for breeding. Implementing weekly water changes and removing 50 to 60% of the tank volume is crucial. The prospective parents will signal readiness to spawn by cleaning their selected site. In aquaria with sandy or gravel substrates, the fish might sculpt depressions for egg laying and care.
High-protein feeding regimes serve as a primer for spawning. Observing spawning readiness should lead to an intensified water change schedule daily 30% changes for three days, culminating in a larger change that slightly cools the water, often serving as a spawning stimulus.
Post-spawn care includes transferring eggs to a 90-litre nursery tank, which should be outfitted with a sponge filter to ensure clean, calm water. Hatch rates can be low, with only a small percentage of the thousands of eggs laid becoming viable, mostly due to fertilization issues. To inhibit fungal growth on unfertilized eggs, which stand out with their bright colouration, methylene blue may be applied to the nursery water.
Eggs typically hatch in about 60 hours, and the fry begins swimming freely from day seven to ten, initially nourished by their yolk sacs. After depleting their yolk, they should be fed with newly hatched brine shrimp. Diligent water quality management, including daily water changes of 15 to 20%, is crucial during the early stages of fry development.
Diet & Feeding
Butterfly Peacock Bass, in their native environments, are adaptable omnivores that consume a wide range of prey such as insects, fish fry, worms, crustaceans, and amphibians. In aquarium settings, these fish often show a preference for live feed but can be successfully weaned onto a diet of prepared foods. This shift not only simplifies the feeding process for aquarists but also mitigates risks associated with live feed, such as the introduction of disease.
Nevertheless, to engage the Butterfly Peacock Bass's natural hunting instincts and to observe their enthralling predatory behaviour, aquarists may occasionally offer live prey. When it comes to prepared diets, these cichlids are well-served by various nutritious options, including worm-based diets, premium pellets, food sticks, and frozen foods that are high in protein, like krill and silversides.
Additionally, Butterfly Peacock Bass will accept a variety of inanimate protein sources such as raw shrimps, prawns, and pieces of fish fillet. This adaptability in captivity means that some fish may be indiscriminate eaters, while others might exhibit more selective feeding behaviours. It’s important for aquarists to recognize and cater to individual dietary needs to ensure the well-being and longevity of their Butterfly Peacock Bass.
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