Fin's Fish Guide
The Peacock bass (Cichla monoculus) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 70 cm.
Description
The Amazon peacock bass is a large predatory cichlid from the Amazon basin in South America, along the Solimoes-Amazonas and tributaries in Peru, Colombia and Brazil. The species grows to about 70 cm and has a streamlined, yellow-green body with three dark cross-bars and a striking black-and-gold eye-spot at the tail base, to which the species name refers. Adults are almost exclusively fish-eaters; juveniles eat shrimp. It is a popular sport fish. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Peacock bass?
The Peacock bass has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Ocellated blotch at the tail base (monoculus); almost exclusively a fish-eater
Where does the Peacock bass live?
The Peacock bass lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Amazon basin
How big does the Peacock bass get?
The Peacock bass grows to a maximum of about 70 cm.
Is the Peacock bass dangerous to humans?
No, the 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 Peacock bass edible?
Yes, the 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 Peacock bass?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Peacock bass is one of 12,519 species in the app.