Orinoco peacock bass Care Guide

The Orinoco Peacock Bass (Cichla orinocensis) is a vibrant and challenging fish to care for, popular among aquarists due to its stunning coloration. Originating from the Orinoco River basin, this species can grow quite large and requires specific care and understanding for optimal health and display in a home aquarium.

Care Process

Orinoco Peacock Bass are known for their resilience, making them a viable choice for the experienced aquarist. However, they are considered a high-maintenance species due to their aggression and territorial behavior, especially during breeding. They thrive in tank conditions ranging from 26°C to 34°C, with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. It is important to maintain these parameters to prevent stress and health issues. Given their aggressive nature, they require careful monitoring when housed with other fish, as they may display territorial aggression.

Feeding

The Orinoco Peacock Bass has a diverse dietary preference, appreciating a mix of live, frozen, and prepared foods. Their diet can include feeder fish, bloodworms, brine shrimp, and tubifex worms. Freeze-dried foods and vegetables matter can also be incorporated. Offering variety, such as algae wafers and color-enhancing food, ensures they receive a balanced diet and maintain their vibrant coloration.

Tank Setup

Due to their potential size of up to 70 cm, the Orinoco Peacock Bass requires a spacious aquarium, with a general guideline being at least 100 liters of water per fish. They are known to be surface, mid-tank, and bottom dwellers, so the tank should provide swimming space across all layers. A minimum school size of five is recommended, given their social tendencies. Due to their aggressive and territorial nature, a thoughtfully designed tank with plenty of hiding spots and territories can help manage aggressive interactions.

Compatibility

Orinoco Peacock Bass are aggressive and can become highly aggressive during breeding periods. It's essential to choose tankmates carefully. Ideally, they should be housed with other large, equally aggressive fish to minimize the risk of predation on smaller species.

Additional Considerations

Maintaining water quality is crucial for this species, and regular water changes are necessary to keep ammonia and nitrate levels low. They are considered rare and moderately affordable within the aquarium trade. Despite their challenges, the Orinoco Peacock Bass can be a rewarding addition to the right aquarist willing to meet their specific needs.