Butterfly Peacock Bass

Other names: -

The peacock cichlid, Cichla ocellaris, is native to South America and found in rivers, reservoirs, and lakes. Known for its distinctive spots and vibrant colors, it is popular in sport fishing due to its size and strength. This species is also raised in aquaculture and kept in aquariums.

Length
~30 (max 74)
Weight
~3 (max 13)
Water
Fresh
Water Temp
15-27° F

Other names
-
Length
~30 (max 74)
Weight
~3 (max 13)
Water
Fresh
Water Temp
15-27° F

Popular lures for Butterfly Peacock Bass

Booyah Pond Magic Spinnerbait

Domestic Shiners

Heddon Super Spook

Minnows

Road Runner Marabou Jig

Storm Jointed ThunderStick

Tyrant Tackle Crusader

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Regulation for Butterfly Peacock Bass

Check all regulations in FL

Season
Always open
Bag limit
2
Vessel limit
-
Trophy limits
1 > 17"
Max size
17"
Min size
-
Measurement
Total Length
Prohibited methods
-

Check all regulations in FL

Living Conditions

🐟 Habitat preferences
- Inhabits quiet waters with medium depth and rocky substrates
- Cannot survive in salinities exceeding 18 ppt
- Feeds primarily on small fish such as threadfin shad, mosquito fish, and bluegill
- Often forms schools in its natural habitat
♻️ Life cycle and mating behavior
- Spawns year-round, peaking at the start of the rainy season
- Females lay 9,000 to 15,000 eggs per kg on flat stones in shallow water
- Eggs hatch in about 78 hours
- Both parents guard the larvae, transporting them to depression nests