Brokopondo Peacock Bass / Cichla Brokopondo

Common Name: Brokopondo Peacock Bass
Scientific Name: Cichla brokopondo
Other Names: Suriname Peacock Bass, Giant Peacock Bass

The Brokopondo Peacock Bass is one of the largest and most powerful predatory cichlids, known for its impressive size, aggressive hunting behavior, and vibrant coloration. Named after the Brokopondo Reservoir in Suriname, where it was first identified, this species is a true monster fish, best suited for experienced aquarists with massive aquariums or dedicated predator tanks. It features a golden-yellow body with black vertical bars, a large mouth, and a streamlined shape built for speed and ambush predation.

Habitat and Distribution: Cichla brokopondo is native to Suriname, specifically the Brokopondo Reservoir and surrounding river systems. These fish inhabit deep river channels, flooded forests, and open waters, preferring warm, well-oxygenated environments. They are top predators, typically found in areas with abundant smaller fish and hiding spots for ambush hunting.

Size and Lifespan: Brokopondo Peacock Bass are among the largest Cichla species, reaching an impressive 30-34 inches (76-86 cm) in length in the wild, though they typically grow to 24-28 inches (61-71 cm) in captivity. They are long-lived, with a lifespan of 10-15 years in well-maintained aquariums.

Diet and Behavior: This species is a voracious carnivore, feeding primarily on live fish, crustaceans, and large invertebrates in the wild. In captivity, their diet should include:

• Live fish (such as feeder cichlids, convicts, or large minnows)
• Whole frozen foods (tilapia, shrimp, squid, and earthworms)
• High-protein carnivore pellets
• Avoid goldfish or rosy red minnows, as they are not nutritionally adequate and may introduce diseases

Brokopondo Peacock Bass are highly aggressive and territorial, especially as they mature. They exhibit fast, powerful movements, making them one of the most exciting predatory fish to observe. They should only be housed with similarly sized, robust fish, as smaller tank mates will be eaten.

Breeding and Reproduction:
Breeding Cichla brokopondo in captivity is rare due to their massive size requirements. Like other Peacock Bass, they are substrate spawners, laying eggs on flat surfaces such as rocks or driftwood. Both parents will guard the eggs and fry aggressively. To encourage breeding:

• Use a 1,000+ gallon pond or aquarium
• Maintain stable, warm water conditions (80-84°F)
• Provide flat surfaces for spawning

Juveniles are highly cannibalistic, so fry should be separated early to prevent losses.

Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements: Due to their massive size and active nature, Brokopondo Peacock Bass require an enormous tank of at least 500 gallons, though 1,000 gallons or more is preferred for a full-grown adult. Their ideal setup includes:

• Substrate: Fine sand or bare-bottom tank for easy cleaning
• Decor: Minimal decorations, as they need open swimming space, though driftwood or large rocks can provide shelter
• Filtration: Extremely powerful filtration (sump or multiple canister filters) to handle their high bioload
• Water Movement: Moderate to strong flow to mimic river currents
• Lighting: Moderate lighting to replicate natural conditions

Ideal Tank Mates:
Only large, robust, and fast-moving species can coexist with Brokopondo Peacock Bass. Suitable tank mates include:

• Other large Peacock Bass species (Cichla temensis, Cichla ocellaris)
• Arowanas
• Large catfish (such as Redtail Catfish, Tiger Shovelnose, or Pseudoplatystoma species)
• Giant Gouramis
• Large freshwater stingrays
  Avoid small, slow-moving, or passive fish, as they will likely be eaten.

Difficulty Level: Advanced. Due to their huge space requirements, aggressive nature, and predatory diet, Brokopondo Peacock Bass are only suitable for experienced aquarists with extremely large tanks or indoor ponds.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 78-86°F (26-30°C)
• pH: 6.5-7.5
• General Hardness (GH): 5-15 dGH
• Carbonate Hardness (KH): 4-10 dKH
• Ammonia: 0 ppm
• Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <20 ppm (regular large water changes required)

Additional Information:

• Fastest-growing Peacock Bass species—juveniles can reach 12 inches within a year if fed properly.
• High metabolism—they require frequent feedings to maintain health and energy levels.
• Fun fact: Unlike most cichlids, Peacock Bass do not dig or rearrange substrate, making them less destructive in terms of tank décor.

The Brokopondo Peacock Bass is a true giant of the aquarium world, offering an exciting predatory display for aquarists who can provide the massive space and resources this species requires. With proper care, they can become a stunning showpiece in large-scale predator tanks or indoor ponds.