Peacock Bass: All You Need To Know!

Peacock Bass are large, bold, and aggressive freshwater fish native to South America, prized by experienced aquarists for their vibrant colours and powerful presence. Due to their size and behaviour, they require large tanks, strong filtration, and a high-protein diet. Intan Arowana Sticks, with 44% protein and natural colour enhancers like astaxanthin, are an ideal pellet feed for Peacock Bass promoting growth, immunity, and vivid colouring. With proper space, diet, and care, Peacock Bass can thrive in home aquariums, offering a rewarding challenge to dedicated fishkeepers.

If you’re fascinated by bold, aggressive, and beautiful freshwater fish, the Peacock Bass deserves your attention. Often described as the ultimate game fish, the Peacock Bass is growing in popularity with experienced aquarists who can meet its unique needs.

In this guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about the Peacock Bass, from its origins and behaviour to tank requirements, feeding habits, and care tips.

What is a Peacock Bass?

Despite the name, the Peacock Bass isn’t actually a bass at all. It belongs to the Cichlidae family and is native to South America, especially the Amazon and Orinoco river basins. Its name comes from the eye-like spot (or “ocellus”) near the tail, which resembles the eye of a peacock’s feather.

Known for their striking patterns, power, and intelligence, Peacock Bass are often considered the freshwater equivalent of big game fish. There are several species, but the most commonly kept in aquariums include:

• Cichla ocellaris
• Cichla monoculus
• Cichla temensis (the largest and most aggressive)

How Big Do They Get?

One of the key things to consider before getting a Peacock Bass is size. These fish aren’t your average tank mates, they’re giants.

• Average size in captivity: 30–45 cm
• Maximum size in the wild: Up to 1 metre
• Weight: Can exceed 10 kg in ideal conditions

Because of this, they’re not suited for small tanks or beginner setups. Keeping a Peacock Bass requires serious space and serious commitment.

Tank Requirements for Peacock Bass

Housing a Peacock Bass properly is essential to its health and growth. These fish need pristine water and ample room to swim.

Minimum tank size:

• For juveniles: 300 litres
• For adults: At least 700–1000 litres per fish

Water conditions:

• Temperature: 25°C to 29°C
• pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.5 to 7.5)
• Filtration: Strong and reliable — they produce a lot of waste
• Décor: Keep it simple. Large rocks, driftwood and open swimming space work best

Tip: Use a tight-fitting lid - Peacock Bass are known jumpers!

Diet and Feeding

Peacock Bass are carnivorous predators with a huge appetite. In aquariums, they require a varied, protein-rich diet to thrive.

• Pellets designed for large carnivorous cichlids

Intan Arowana Sticks are high-protein (44%) floating sticks specially crafted for large carnivorous fish like Peacock Bass. Made with premium ingredients including fish meal, krill, squid meal, and natural colour enhancers like astaxanthin and marigold, this feed supports vibrant colouring, strong immunity, and long-term health. Highly palatable and a safe alternative to live feed, it’s designed to promote growth, disease resistance, and overall vitality in your prized fish.

It’s best to train them to accept high-quality pellets early on, as it makes feeding easier and more balanced. Overfeeding can lead to water quality issues, so portion control is key when feeding Peacock Bass.

Behaviour and Tank Mates

The Peacock Bass is territorial, fast-moving, and aggressive, especially during feeding or breeding. That doesn’t mean they can’t have tank mates, but compatibility is a serious consideration.

Ideal tank mates (for large setups only):

• Other large cichlids (of similar size and temperament)
• Large catfish (like redtail or tiger shovelnose)
• Silver Arowanas or Datnoids

Avoid small or slow-moving species — they’ll likely end up as dinner.

Common Care Challenges

Keeping a Peacock Bass healthy takes effort. Some common challenges include:

• Poor water quality – Their waste load is high; regular maintenance is essential
• Outgrowing tanks – Don’t underestimate how fast they grow

Close observation, frequent water changes, and a proper diet will go a long way in keeping your Peacock Bass in peak condition.

Taking Care of Peacock Bass

The Peacock Bass is not your average aquarium fish, it’s a bold, beautiful predator that requires experience, space, and dedication. But for those ready to take on the challenge, the rewards are immense: vibrant colours, fascinating behaviour, and an unmistakable presence in your tank.

If you’re planning on adding a Peacock Bass to your collection, make sure you're fully prepared to meet its size, feeding, and space needs. Done right, keeping a Peacock Bass can be one of the most exciting experiences in the world of fishkeeping.

At Intan, we are here to provide you with premium fish feed. Our feed is tailored to meet the specific needs of each species. Every feed can spark positive change and create a future promoting quality, resilience, and well-being. We aim to serve the needs of hobbyists and breeders for the best quality of each species’ unique requirements. To know more about us, check out our Instagram page or contact us. 

We are not just a brand; we are stewards of the underwater world. We believe in the well-being of our friends and their mental health. Understanding and addressing the stressors that affect fish is not just a concept for us, it's a commitment. Through our dedication to research and innovative products, we aim to ensure that fish everywhere can lead happier, healthier lives.