Common Name: Kelberi Peacock Bass
Scientific Name: Cichla kelberi
Other Names: Kelberi Cichla, Yellow Peacock Bass
Description:
The Kelberi Peacock Bass is a stunning freshwater fish known for its vibrant coloration and impressive size. It typically exhibits a golden-yellow body with dark vertical bars and bright red or orange accents on its fins. This species is highly sought after by aquarists for its striking appearance and dynamic presence in large aquariums. Kelberi Peacock Bass are predatory by nature, known for their aggressive hunting behaviors and territorial tendencies.
Habitat and Distribution:
The Kelberi Peacock Bass is native to South America, particularly found in the rivers and lakes of Brazil. They thrive in slow-moving or still waters with abundant vegetation and submerged structures. These environments provide ample hiding spots and hunting grounds for this ambush predator. The water in their natural habitat is typically warm, soft to moderately hard, and slightly acidic to neutral.
Size and Lifespan:
In the wild, Kelberi Peacock Bass can grow up to 20-24 inches (50-60 cm) in length. In captivity, they usually reach a size of about 18-20 inches (45-50 cm). With proper care, their lifespan ranges from 10 to 15 years, depending on the conditions provided in the aquarium.
Diet and Behavior:
Kelberi Peacock Bass are carnivorous and primarily feed on smaller fish, crustaceans, and insects in the wild. In an aquarium setting, they should be fed a diet of live or frozen foods such as feeder fish, shrimp, and high-quality carnivorous pellets. It is important to avoid feeding them saltwater foods like shrimp, krill, or seafood. These fish are highly active and aggressive hunters, often displaying dynamic behaviors such as stalking and ambushing their prey. They are also known for their territorial nature and should be kept in spacious tanks to minimize aggression.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Breeding Kelberi Peacock Bass in captivity is challenging due to their size and specific environmental requirements. They are substrate spawners, with females laying eggs on flat surfaces such as rocks or driftwood. Successful breeding often requires a large tank with optimal water conditions, stable temperatures, and plenty of hiding spots for the fry. Both parents typically guard the eggs and fry aggressively. Captive breeding is typically undertaken by experienced aquarists or specialized breeding operations.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
Due to their size and active nature, Kelberi Peacock Bass require a large aquarium, with a minimum of 150-200 gallons recommended for adult specimens. The tank should be equipped with efficient filtration, strong water flow, and regular water changes to maintain water quality. Providing a naturalistic environment with plenty of hiding spots, such as rocks, driftwood, and sturdy plants, will help reduce stress and encourage natural behavior. The water temperature should be maintained between 75-82°F (24-28°C), with a pH of 6.0-7.5 and moderate hardness.
Ideal Tank Mates:
Kelberi Peacock Bass can be kept with other large, robust fish that share similar water parameter requirements. Suitable tank mates include other large cichlids, large catfish, and similarly aggressive species. Avoid housing them with smaller, more passive fish that may become targets of aggression or predation.
Difficulty Level:
Intermediate to Advanced. Keeping Kelberi Peacock Bass requires a good understanding of large predatory fish care, water quality management, and providing appropriate tank conditions. They are best suited for experienced aquarists with large, well-maintained tanks.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
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pH: 6.0-7.5
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General Hardness (GH): 5-15 dGH
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Carbonate Hardness (KH): 4-10 dKH
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Ammonia: 0 ppm (ideal), up to 0.25 ppm (max)
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Nitrite: 0 ppm (ideal), up to 0.25 ppm (max)
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Nitrate: <20 ppm (ideal), up to 40 ppm (max)
Additional Information:
- The Kelberi Peacock Bass's vibrant coloration and predatory behaviors make it a highly sought-after species among advanced hobbyists.
- In their natural habitat, they play a crucial role in controlling populations of smaller fish species, contributing to the ecological balance of their environment.
- Fun fact: Peacock bass are known for their powerful strikes and can be challenging yet rewarding to catch for sport fishermen.
