Description

🐟 Peacock Bass (Kelberi)

📌 Basic Info

• Scientific Name: Cichla kelberi

• Family: Cichlidae

• Origin: Brazil (Rio Tocantins and Rio Araguaia basins)

• Size: 18 – 22 inches (45 – 55 cm)

• Lifespan: 10 – 12 years

• Tank Zone: Mid to Top

🌊 Water Parameters

• TDS: 100 – 200 ppm

• pH: 6.0 – 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

• Temperature: 25 – 30°C (77 – 86°F)

• Hardness: 4 – 10 dGH

🐟 Characteristics

• Known as one of the most colorful Peacock Bass species.

• Golden-yellow body with dark vertical bars and shiny scales.

• Powerful predator but less aggressive compared to Temensis.

• Very active swimmer, needs open space.

🍽️ Food

• Type: Carnivorous

• Diet: Live feeder fish, prawns, shrimp, worms, crickets, frozen fish, and high-protein pellets.

• Feeding: Once or twice daily in controlled amounts.

🛠️ Maintenance

• Tank Size: Minimum 250 – 300 gallons (larger is better).

• Filtration: Heavy filtration + good aeration (they produce a lot of waste).

• Decor: Open swimming area with driftwood and rocks at the sides.

• Water Change: 30–40% weekly.

👥 Social Behavior

• Minimum Group Size: Best kept single or in pairs (groups need very large tanks).

• Tank Mates: Other large, strong fish – Oscars, Arowanas, Pacu, Giant Gourami, Large Catfish.

• Avoid: Small or slow fish (they will be eaten).

✅ Do’s

• Provide very large aquariums or ponds.

• Give a protein-rich diet.

• Maintain stable warm water.

• Use strong lids (they can jump).

❌ Don’ts

• Don’t overcrowd – they are territorial.

• Don’t keep with small or delicate fish.

• Don’t keep in small tanks (they outgrow fast).

• Don’t skip water changes – they need clean water.

⭐ Quick Tips

• Peacock Bass Kelberi is prized for its bright golden-yellow body.

• Strong yet less aggressive, making it a favorite among Peacock Bass keepers.

• Needs expert care, large tanks, and proper diet to thrive.