Description

Peacock bass is the common name for several species of tropical and freshwater fish area of South America. These tropical fish are not true bass but are rather cichlids. Most common at 1-2 pounds with larger fish reaching a range of 3-5 pounds with the possibility of getting up to about 9 pounds. Peacock bass is aggressive, hard strikers and love to fight.

The Peacock Cichlid is characterized by a bass-shaped body, with green or darker uppers and a lighter to yellowy underside, He has three vertical stripes and a spot on his tail that is outlined with a white or lighter stroke. The fins show color variations, ranging from blue to red to purple and yellow. These fish are found in deeper waters where the temperature remains somewhat warm during cold snaps. Most likely found in our south due to its intolerance for colder waters.

Environment

The fish thrives best in warm and shallow waters with plenty of vegetation. These fish are usually found in small streams, lakes, and rivers that have a slow or moderate current. They prefer areas with submerged logs, large rocks, and vegetation as they provide shelter and hiding places. The ideal water temperature range for peacock bass is between 73 – 84 degrees Fahrenheit, and they can tolerate a wide PH range of 6.5 – 8.0. They also require well-oxygenated water with plenty of hiding spaces to provide shelter from predators as well as another peacock bass. Peacock bass will usually avoid murky waters and deep still waters unless there is plenty of vegetation and food. Good water quality is essential to maintaining a healthy population of peacock bass.

Physical Characteristics

This fish is characterized by a stout, bass-shaped body with green or darker uppers and a lighter to the yellowy underside. It has three vertical stripes and a spot on its tail outlined with a white or lighter stroke. Its fins show color variations ranging from blue to red to purple and yellow. The head of a peacock bass is quite large and the mouth extends beyond the eyes. It has very strong teeth that allow it to feed on hard-shelled prey. The scales are small, smooth, and tightly fitted. Its dorsal fin is long with a spiny front portion and its anal fin is short but wide with a blunt tip. Males have more distinct coloration and a brighter color pattern than females. The average size of the peacock bass is around 1-2 pounds with larger fish reaching up to about 9 pounds.

Feeding Habits

This is is an aggressive and opportunistic feeder, which means it will usually take whatever food it can find. It primarily feeds on smaller fish, crustaceans, insects, worms, and other small aquatic creatures. Peacock bass also likes to hunt in schools or packs where they can all target the same prey at once. They can also feed on larger prey such as frogs and rodents. In the wild, these fish are typically found in shallow water hunting for food during dawn and dusk. They will also search for small crevices and vegetation to ambush their prey from.

Fishability

It is known to be an aggressive and hard striker, making it a great fish to target for both novice and expert anglers. It offers a thrilling fight when hooked and can put up quite the challenge depending on its size. Its small size also makes it ideal for catch-and-release fishing, as most individuals are within the legal size limit. The best way to target peacock bass is with artificial lures such as crankbaits, spoons, and jigs. Fishing in shallow areas with plenty of vegetation is also a great tactic for catching peacock bass. Anglers should be sure to use heavier tackle when targeting large specimens as they can put up quite a fight. Overall, the Peacock bass is an exciting and rewarding species to target for anglers of all levels.

Why is this Fish a good mount?

The Peacock bass is a great fish to mount because of its beautiful colors and unique shape. Its vibrant colors, ranging from blue to red to purple and yellow, make it an eye-catching display piece in any home or office. Its long fins are also quite impressive when mounted, giving the appearance of a much larger fish than it is. Its strong teeth and large head give it a fierce look, making it an attractive addition to any wall. Its small size also makes for an easy mounting process. Overall, the Peacock bass is an ideal fish for mounting due to its vibrant colors, unique shape and size, and fierce expression.