Fin's Fish Guide
The Butterfly peacock bass (Cichla ocellaris) is a brackish-water fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 74 cm.
Description
The peacock bass (Cichla ocellaris) is a large, predatory cichlid from northern South America. The species has an elongate, yellow-green body with three dark vertical bands and a conspicuous, black-rimmed eyespot (ocellus) on the caudal peduncle, resembling a peacock's eye and giving the species its name. It can reach about 74 cm and inhabits calm, moderately deep waters and rapids with a rocky bottom. As a fast ambush predator it hunts almost exclusively small fishes. The peacock bass is a highly prized sport fish and valued food fish; beyond its native range it has been introduced worldwide and has become invasive in places.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Butterfly peacock bass?
The Butterfly peacock bass has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Peacock eyespot on the tail and three dark bands; top game fish, locally invasive.
Where does the Butterfly peacock bass live?
The Butterfly peacock bass lives in brackish water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Rivers of northern South America.
How big does the Butterfly peacock bass get?
The Butterfly peacock bass grows to a maximum of about 74 cm.
Is the Butterfly peacock bass dangerous to humans?
No, the Butterfly peacock bass is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Butterfly peacock bass edible?
Yes, the Butterfly peacock bass is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Cichla
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Butterfly peacock bass?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Butterfly peacock bass is one of 12,519 species in the app.