Cichlids and Peacock Bass
Cichlidae encompasses more that 1,300 species (cichlids) which, in addition to peacock bass, includes tilapia, guapote (rainbow bass), angelfish and oscars. Peacock bass are distributed worldwide, and are the largest American Cichlidae family member. Peacock bass are further categorized in the genus Cichla. Over the years, much debate exists among experts pertaining to the identification of peacock bass and the inclusion of new species within the genus. As of 2011, depending on the authority, the number of peacock bass species range from five to 15. However, research indicates that that some species are agreed upon by all experts: Cichla ocellaris, Cichla temensis. Cichla orinocensis, Cichla monoculus and Cichla intermedia. All species are heavily distributed throughout South America.
Cichla ocellaris
Cichla ocellaris, sometimes called butterfly peacock bass, generally grows to 28 inches in length and about 14 lbs. Part of the body is olive in color, fading to pale yellow; and they have red irises. Their fins are black, gray and red, with a distinguishing black, haloed spot on their caudal fin. Cichla ocellaris primarily inhabits freshwater, but can occur in brackish water.
Cichla temensis
Cichla temensis. also called speckled pavon, inhabit lagoons and the rocky or sandy banks of river channels. They grow to 40 inches and 27 lbs. When they aren't spawning, they are usually grayish in color, with white blotches. During spawning season, they are yellow with black stripes.
Cichla orinocensis
Cichla orinocensis, sometimes called pavon, inhabit freshwater rivers, but are usually captured in the shallow areas of river channel reaches and lagoons. These fish grow to 24 1/2 inches and 14 lbs. They are generally yellowish-gray, with variances in markings from vertical black stripes to black haloed spots.
Cichla monoculus
Cichla monoculus, also called popoca in Brazil, generally grows to 27 1/2 inches, with a maximum reported weight of 20 lbs. They are yellow with irregular black splotches on the lower portion of their body, and black markings on the upper portion. They hunt for food along the shoreline for fish and shrimp.
Cichla intermedia
Cichla intermedia, sometimes referred to as "royal peacock" in the United States, is usually found near woody structures and rocks of a river channel. They grow up to 22 inches and 7 lbs. Adults have a gray upper body and yellow lower body, with black markings and a black spot on the back fin.